Spurs face German test

Tottenham look like facing competition for midfield target Mark van Bommel.

Big-spending Bundesliga club Schalke 04 have emerged as front runners in the race for his signature and the player admits he is interested in the German side.

Van Bommel has a contract with PSV Eindhoven until 2005, but said: "It would be a challenge to move to Schalke because they have very big ambitions."

Meanwhile, Spurs have an injury doubt over left-back Mauricio Taricco for tomorrow's trip to Southampton.

Taricco has a hip problem and youngster Johnnie Jackson stands by to replace him.

Acting manager David Pleat could recall £ 6.25million striker Helder Postiga to the squad after he missed last week's defeat by Manchester United. Club captain Jamie Redknapp will also remain in the squad but there is likely to be no place for Gus Poyet or Darren Anderton.