Boot On The Other Foot This Fortnight

Last Updated : 06-Sep-2007 by
This week Spurs boss Martin Jol sees it from the other side of the fence.

It is a different picture when your team is struggling and he admits the international break has added to his frustration following Tottenham's poor start to the Premier League season.

Spurs have won once in their opening five games but the Dutchman has to wait another week to put it right, with the clash against north London rivals Arsenal next up a week on Saturday.

Jol: "Any manager will tell you that they don't like it - and I certainly feel that way.

"You don't see your players and they could get injured.

"They all want to play for their countries, I understand that and I would never stand in their way. On the other hand, sometimes the breaks can be a pain and affect your planning.

"We had the first six weeks with pre-season and in the second six you want to overload your players to make them fitter and fitter.

"Last year it certainly came off because we could peak all the time, but if they are gone for over a week it makes it much more difficult. You must hope for the best that they all come back without any injuries."