England

Beckenbauer: Spurs' Loss Was Our Gain

Franz Beckenbauer believes Martin Jol’s sacking as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, and subsequent success at Hamburg, is another victory for Germany over England.

Oct 5, 2008 1:17:37 PM

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Franz Beckenbauer (AFP)

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The popular Dutchman was sacked in October following Spurs’ dismal start to the season, strangely reminiscent of the club’s current predicament under Juande Ramos as they sit bottom of the league.

It was, in fact, a meeting between the north Londoners and then Seville manager Ramos that put the final nail in Jol’s coffin at White Hart Lane, but Beckenbauer believes the German club got the better deal as Hamburg battle for top-spot in the Bundesliga.

“I don’t know the exact circumstances of what happened at Tottenham but it’s hard to believe any team would not want Martin Jol as coach,” he said.

“He is doing a fantastic job at Hamburg. Your loss, if you like, is our gain. It’s another huge victory for German football over you English!”

“I remember spotting Martin’s talents when he was a player at Bayern. That was a long time ago but he seems to have many talents also as a coach.

“The style Hamburg are showing is excellent. They have a genuine chance of winning the Bundesliga.”

Will Wood