The Arsenal fans who sniggered when Jacques Santini was appointed Tottenham’s new manager in the summer are no longer scoffing quite so confidently. Santini’s reputation as a coach took a pounding when he proved unable to get France’s superstars to perform at Euro 2004. But there is no disputing the impact he has had on a Spurs squad that spent most of last season treading water just above the relegation quagmire. Unbeaten in six Premiership matches so far, Spurs welcome Manchester United to White Hart Lane on Saturday. Monday’s win over Liverpool and Rio Ferdinand’s impressive return to action have dispelled some of the early season gloom at Old Trafford. But United remain seven points adrift of Premiership pacesetters Arsenal and badly in need of a victory that, on the evidence of Spurs’ disciplined defensive performances so far, will prove hard to come by. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was so infuriated by Tottenham’s approach to last weekend’s 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge that he described Santini’s tactics as tantamount to parking a bus in front of the goal. But Spurs skipper Jamie Redknapp claims a six-goal romp against Oldham in midweek was proof that the North London club retain the creative flair which has long been their trademark. All three Tottenham strikers were on target in mid-week and Kanoute’s double — his first goals since January — could see the Mali international start tomorrow at the expense of Robbie Keane.
