Spurs sign French star

Tottenham have won the summer-long race for the signature of Fulham midfielder Steed Malbranque which has seen Wayne Routledge join the Cottagers on loan for the season.
 
Spurs manager Martin Jol said: “Steed is a skilful, versatile midfielder of real quality.

"He is a player we have always admired and we are delighted he has come to us, there were a number of other clubs interested. He is a player who can cover the left, centre and right midfield positions and will work well within our system."

"Wayne was very unlucky last season when he did so well in the Peace Cup but was then badly injured in our first Premiership game at Portsmouth.

"That gave Aaron Lennon his chance and everyone knows how much he improved as the season progressed, culminating with his call into England's World Cup squad.

"In the meantime, Wayne went to Portsmouth on loan and he returned to pre-season looking sharp.

"It's important that Wayne continues to play consistently in the Premiership. He is a valuable member of our squad and we want him to have the opportunity to continue to develop, so this loan benefits both him individually and us as a club."

Malbranque expressed his delight with the deadline day move saying: "Tottenham is a big club and it's a fantastic new challenge for me. It's an excellent squad and I'm looking forward to joining.

"I will be working hard on my recovery and rehabilitation in order to be ready to play as soon as possible."

Fulham manager Chris Coleman was also pleased with the transaction and revealed his admiration for his new winger.

Coleman said: "I have admired Wayne since he was a youngster at Palace and always thought he had a lot of talent,''

"I am glad that we have been able to get him on loan as we needed a quick right-sided player to add another dimension to the squad.''