Jol’s future still in peril despite best ever returns

TOTTENHAM yesterday announced record financial results and confirmed the departure of Paul Kemsley as vice-chairman, but it remains uncertain if either will impact on Martin Jol’s position as manager.

Spurs recorded their best figures for turnover and profit, partly due to the partnerships with Mansion and Puma, but also because of Jol’s work over the last two seasons.

The Dutchman was credited with getting the club into Europe and in the last campaign they played 21 cup ties on top of the revenue that comes from Premier League games.

There was no reference to Jol in the statement from the club to the Stock Exchange announcing their impressive figures for the 12 months before June 30 this year.

He appeared undermined earlier in the season when Spurs officials, including Kemsley, met Sevilla coach Juande Ramos in Spain.

Jose Mourinho was also a reported target when he left Chelsea.

Chairman Daniel Levy has backed Jol publicly but there has been a perception of the current boss simply keeping the seat warm and it is unclear whether Kemsley’s departure will strengthen or weaken his position.

“Paul has recently expanded his property business interests in the United States and feels that inevitably his time spent overseas will impact upon his ability to fulfil his role with the club,” explained Levy.

Increasing the capacity – whether at White Hart Lane or elsewhere – is part of Levy’s plan to compete regularly in the Champions League, ambitions which increased the pressure on Jol.

Spurs are currently struggling towards the foot of the Premier League but are targeting an improvement on consecutive fifth-placed finishes to continue their financial growth.

“Notably, we generate operating profits at 31% of turnover, a position that highlights the impact that further European football and more live games can have on the current business model,” Levy added.

Levy also wants Jermain Defoe to extend his contract to avoid losing him for nothing at the end of next season, as happened with Sol Campbell.

“We very much hope Jermain Defoe will also extend his contract with the club,” he said. “We have progressively introduced an increased element of performance-related remuneration into player contracts designed to reward success.”