PLEAT DENIES HOLDING BANTAMS TALKS

Tottenham`s director of football is rumoured to be top of Richmond`s hit-list, following the sacking of Chris Hutchings on Monday, with the Premiership strugglers targeting an experienced figure to come to Valley Parade before the end of the week.

Former Everton manager Howard Kendall has also been mentioned as a possible candidate, to work alongside caretaker boss Stuart McCall, but some reports are claiming that Pleat has held discussions with Richmond in a London hotel.

However, Pleat responded to the stories by affirming: "I have spoken to no-one from Bradford City."

It is believed that Richmond wants an experienced man to work alongside a younger coach, possibly McCall.

Although many Spurs fans are distressed with the current situation at White Hart Lane, their director of football has been given much credit for bringing some promising youngsters to White Hart Lane over the past year or so.

Indeed, much of any antagonism from the supporters is aimed at chairman Sir Alan Sugar and manager George Graham.

Meanwhile, Bradford defender Mark Bower is interesting York City.

The Third Division outfit have already had the 20-year-old on loan, and they are keen to set up a similar deal, but any dealings are on hold until the managerial situation is resolved.