Ardiles warning for Hoddle

Former Tottenham manager Ossie Ardiles believes it will take his old club at least three years to catch up with England's leading sides.

The 48-year-old Argentine, who is in his second season as a manager in Japan, reckons his former teammate Glenn Hoddle must strengthen the Spurs squad in all departments.

"I hope Glenn can be a success because I am his friend, but he has a hell of a job on his hands," said Ardiles today.

"A manager is only as good as his players, and right now the team needs improving all over the place. I think he will need three or four years and a lot of money to make Spurs a top team.

"You need quality players. Which players from Spurs would get into the Manchester United team apart from Sol Campbell?"

Referring to the news that 34-year-old striker Les Ferdinand has agreed a new two-year deal at Spurs, Ardiles added: "No criticism, but would United have signed him? Would Liverpool?"

Meanwhile, David Ginola admitted he was overwhelmed by the reaction of the Tottenham fans during Aston Villa's goalless draw at White Hart Lane.

The only thing which marred the Frenchman's return was that Villa manager John Gregory kept him on the bench for the first 80 minutes.

"The reaction of the fans touched my heart," said Ginola. "People cried when they saw me, and I have to admit there was a tear in my eye, too."

But Ginola left with a word of optimism for his former club. He said: "I think Spurs will be stronger next season.

"The club belongs in the top half of the table rather than having this average season with no trophies."