Beckenbauer bemused by Jol axe

Germany legend hails Hamburg coach

Last updated: 12th October 2008

Martin Jol Hamburg v Manchester City

Jol: Beckenbauer praise

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Germany legend Franz Beckenbauer believes Tottenham's problems stem from their decision to axe Martin Jol as coach.

Jol guided Spurs to consecutive fifth-placed finishes in the Premier League, only to be shown the door at the start of last season with Juande Ramos brought in to replace him.

Beckenbauer, who is president of Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, has witnessed Jol's impressive work at first hand following his appointment by Hamburg.

The Dutchman has guided his new club to the top of the table after seven games of the new season, while back in England Ramos' Spurs are languishing at the foot of the Premier League with two points from seven games - their worst start since 1912.

Fantastic

Beckenbauer told the News of the World: "I don't know the exact circumstances of what happened at Tottenham but it's hard to believe any team would not want Martin Jol as coach.

"He is doing a fantastic job at Hamburg. Your loss is our gain, if you like. It's another huge victory for German football over you English.

"The first time I saw him this season was against Bayern in his first game of the season. His team were 2-0 down away from home against the reigning champions yet they came back to draw 2-2.

"I remember spotting his talents when he was a player at Bayern. That was a long time ago but it seems he also has many talents as a coach.

"The physical conditioning and discipline of his players is excellent. The players behave very well. The style Hamburg are showing is really excellent, they have a genuine chance of winning the Bundesliga."