Teddy Sheringham has rejoined his former club Tottenham Hotspur from Manchester United on a free transfer. The 35-year-old striker has reportedly signed a two-year contract with the London club who sold him to United back in 1997. During his four year spell at United, Sheringham won three consecutive Premiership medals and scored in their FA Cup and Champions League finals of 1999 when United captured the elusive treble.
Last summer, the England international signed a one-year extension to his contract and his form for the Premiership champions this season earned him both the PFA Player of the Year award and the Football Writers' Footballer of the Year accolade. However, because of United's unwillingness to extend Sheringham's contract for a further two years and the arrival of Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy for £19m, Sheringham decided to quit the club in favour of his boyhood heroes.
"I have won numerous medals and trophies but I felt the time was right to leave United," said Sheringham at a press conference this afternoon to unveil Glenn Hoddle's first signing as Tottenham manager. "It was a very big decision, especially as Sir Alex wanted me to stay. But Daniel Levy(Spurs' non-executive director) convinced me it was the right move. There was a lot to take into consideration but it is good to be back. But the aim is to win something," he added.
"I am not going to say we are going to win things. I want to make Tottenham better. There is a long way to go to challenge the top teams. I have been there and seen how good they are. Tottenham are on the up. There is not such a big difference between mid-table and the top four or five. That is probably our first target," he continued.
Tottenham boss Glenn Hoddle is relieved to have finally gotten his man. "I am delighted. It is a fresh start for him and a fresh start for the ambitions of this club. In the last 10 years he has been one of the most productive players at club level. He is a class players and one who knows how to win - this club needs this type of player if we are to progress," he explained.
"Teddy is perfect for the style we are going to be playing. As soon as I knew we could get him he was first on our list. He can play in many positions and gives us options. We know what he is good at - he has played at the highest level and in different positions. I was delighted to work with him at England and will be again," added the former England boss.
"We are concerned with the future," said Hoddle of his plan for Spurs. "If we can get a few more players in there is no reason why we can't do well. If we get the quality players fit and the youngsters come through, the future for this club will be bright."
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
