Tottenham hand trial to Australian goalkeeper Ryan

Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Mat Ryan set for trial at Tottenham Hotspur

14/07/2012 9:18:00 AM

The Central Coast Mariners shot-stopper, crowned A-League's best goalkeeper last season, has travelled to London for a week's training with the north London outfit

Tottenham have offered Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Mathew Ryan a week’s trial.

The 20-year-old, who was named the A-League's best shot-stopper last season, has been invited to train with Spurs ahead of their move to a new training facility.

Mariners chairman Peter Turnbull revealed he has given the go-ahead for the Australian to link up with the English Premier League side, with a similar offer from Championship club Burnley reportedly rejected.

"It is a magnificent opportunity and experience for Mathew to have a look at a top Premier League club," Turnbull said via club statement.

"Tottenham move into their new training facility on the first of August so it will be a great experience for him."

Turnbull also feels that Ryan, who has won back-to-back A-League young player of the year awards and holds a UK passport, could follow in the footsteps of his compatriot Mark Schwarzer in carving out a notable international career.

"It is reflective of Mathew’s standing in the game," he added.

"He has stature, he deservedly won a number of awards last season and has already been picked as Mark Schwarzer’s understudy for the Socceroos – he is a guy who is sought after."

The Mariners rejected claims that negotiations have begun between the two clubs about a possible transfer for Ryan, who has one year left on his current deal.

Meanwhile, it is Goal.com’s understanding that Tottenham are still targeting goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and are in the process of submitting a £13.5 million bid for the Lyon man.