Jol commits future to Spurs

MARTIN JOL celebrated a new contract with Tottenham and then found his team plans in turmoil ahead of tomorrow's top-of-the-table clash with reigning Barclays Premiership champions Chelsea.

Jol put pen to paper on a three-year deal which was backdated to when he took control of first-team affairs last season.

The departure of Jacques Santini allowed Jol to step-up to first-team coach and he has been rewarded for his efforts with a contract that expires at the end of next season.

Included in the deal is an option for a further year if both parties agree, and Jol was delighted to finally get the deal sorted out.

"It was signed earlier this week when the chairman came back from America," explained Jol. "It was only a matter of putting of pen to paper.

"It is for three years - last year, this year and next year. Then Spurs have an option for a further year. The deal suits me fine and I would like to improve the team in a serious way in a philosophy that suits the club.

"We want to buy players - like Michael Essien for example - when they are a bit younger, develop them and during that period, improve the team. I think we are doing that."

While Jol was delighted with his new contract, he was facing some tough choices as he prepared to take on league leaders Chelsea at White Hart Lane.

Like Chelsea, Spurs have yet to concede a goal but their draw at Blackburn on Wednesday night has left them two points behind their west London rivals.

Jol had been hoping to replace injured Wayne Routledge with Teemu Tainio on the right flank but his plans appear to be scuppered following an injury to the Finland international.

That could open the door for talented youngster Aaron Lennon and Jol confirmed the winger was in consideration for a first-team place.

England centre-half Ledley King is still injured with his groin problem but Jol is more concerned with the problem on the right.

Jol said: "Wayne is out with a fracture in his foot and Teemu is now a big worry because he got a nice kick in his hip.

"We will have another look tomorrow but I think he will be out. Aaron will come into consideration. He is not raw. He is young, although physically he may not be up to the standard. But he is very quick and playing well in the reserves. So he could be a problem for any other team."

Michael Carrick and Edgar Davids, left out of the starting line-up at Blackburn with minor knocks, will be included in the side.

Jol revealed the side had numerous bumps and bruises after their physical encounter with Rovers at Ewood Park.

The game ended goalless but Jol was unhappy with the way Rovers skipper Andy Todd stayed on the pitch after appearing to headbutt Republic of Ireland winger Andy Reid.

Jol added: "You have to look at the pictures and make your mind. Todd gave him a headbutt and then when he stood in front of him he gave him another little push with his head."

Jol's squad is being pressurised by injuries early in the season but the Dutchman refused to reveal whether the club would add to the squad before the transfer window closes.

Spurs have been linked with moves for Dirk Kuyt and South Korean left-back Lee Young-Pyo, who is believed to hold a clause in his contract that allows him to leave for less than €2.2 million, although that fee could rise to more than €3m.