Santini resigns as Spurs boss
Friday, 5 November 2004 19:03Tottenham manager Jacques Santini has left the north London club for personal reasons after just 13 games in charge.
In a statement, Santini said: "My time at Tottenham has been memorable, and it is with deep regret that I take my leave. Private issues in my personal life have arisen which caused my decision.
"I have therefore requested to return to France. I very much hope that the wonderful fans will respect my decision.
The former French national coach thanked Spurs' sporting director Frank Arnesen and chairman Daniel Levy and wished the club and supporters all the best for the season.
Arnesen vowed to act quickly to fill stabilise matters at the ailing Premiership club.
"We are obviously disappointed that Jacques is leaving us. We fully respect his decision. I can assure you that the club will act swiftly to minimise the impact of Jacques' departure.
"Our priority is to ensure that this season's performance remains unaffected by this move. I shall make a further statement on Monday clarifying our position, " he added.
Martin Jol, first assistant coach, will take charge for tomorrow's game against Charlton.
Santini's departure will come as a bitter blow for Spurs who underwent a long search to appoint a new manager following the decision to sack Glenn Hoddle last season. Santini was eventually installed as new coach in July.
He helped Spurs to a fine start, but they have slipped down the Premiership table to 11th in recent weeks.
