First Premiership gong for Jol

Last updated : 20 January 2005 By Alistair Murray

Spurs have won seven of their last nine games and are currently enjoying an unbeaten run that stretches back to the end of November.

Michael Carrick's influence combined with the foreign summer signings has transformed the character of the Tottenham side since Jol’s arrival. The Dutchman believed in the ability of Carrick more than his predecessor Jacques Santini did. Under the former France coach, Tottenham scored six league goals in the opening three months of the season. In contrast Spurs have scored 23 goals in the Premiership since the start of November.

After almost a four-year absence from the international scene, Carrick is also set to be included in the England squad for the upcoming friendly with Holland.

"The coach (Jol) has been great for me. This is the happiest I have been in a long time and everything seems to be going great," said Carrick.

With Carrick performing admirably as playmaker, Jamie Redknapp joined Southampton in order to get regular first team football. Former Tottenham trainee Ledley King succeeded Redknapp as club captain ahead of Tottenham's infamous 0-0 draw at Manchester United a fortnight ago.

"The new manager has put a smile on all of our faces. He is so passionate about the game. He cares about what happens here and that is passed on to all of his players," said King.