Premiership: United still the benchmark, says expert

Tottenham manager George Graham will still be left trailing in Manchester United's slipstream no matter how much money he is promised by new owners ENIC, according to a top football analyst.

Graham is due to meet the ENIC power brokers this week to discuss funds being made available for strengthening his squad.

"Manchester United remain the benchmark for all clubs as they are the only ones who treat football like a business," said Frank Buchan football analyst with stockbrokers Brewn Dolphin.

"You can't put a price on how much Graham might need to spend to get to United's level. It is impossible to predict.

"It is difficult to know what might happen in the near future, certainly with regards to the transfer system.

"I think the best players will still command big transfer fees and long-term contracts.

"But the only people who are buying up major football clubs at the moment are fans. That is the situation at Tottenham.

"You may be a supporter but you still have to answer to the shareholders. The club's success is reflected in their share price.

"Tottenham are a historical club but they need the right infrastructure if they are to progress.

"In my opinion the way forward for all English clubs is for them to develop their own strong youth policy."