Spurs cool Harry's England link

Published Dec. 13, 2011 6:17 p.m. ET

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Redknapp is a leading contender to replace Fabio Capello after Euro 2012 when the Italian steps down as England manager, a position that is of enormous appeal to the 64-year-old. But Spurs are eager to keep the man who has guided them into the Barclays Premier League title frame, at least in the short to medium term. Levy, the club chairman who was speaking at today's Tottenham annual general meeting, has been encouraged by a recent meeting with Redknapp's representatives. "Harry has 18 months left on his contract," said Levy. "We have had a conversation where it was said that as far as Harry's concerned, he's very happy here and that he doesn't particularly want to consider England at the present time. "We will worry about that situation if it arises in the summer." Levy was equally defiant on Tottenham's determination to keep the players who have proved instrumental in establishing the club in such a strong position this season. Gareth Bale and Luka Modric top the list of stars who could attract attention during the January transfer window, but Levy has issued a hands-off warning to rival clubs. "We have a great squad with exceptional talent and none of the main players will be leaving in January," he said. Tottenham sit fourth in the Premier League table, seven points behind leaders Manchester City with a game in hand, but lost ground with Sunday's defeat at Stoke. "I hope we have a great season and that we can finish in the top four or, who knows, maybe even higher. We want first place," said Levy. "I spoke to Harry and told him not to be too despondent, because if we win our game in hand against Everton, we could be only four points behind Manchester City." In his speech to the AGM, Levy outlined the club's desire to stay in N17 following their failed attempt to secure the Olympic Stadium as their future home. However, he stressed that public money must be spent on improving the infrastructure of the area before the club will be convinced to invest themselves. "A financing package will need to include bank finance, enabling development and sponsorship," said Levy. "Quite clearly any significant, further investment by the club would need to be in the context of a commitment by the public sector to fund public infrastructure works to create the environment and confidence to commit further. "These public monies would be entirely for public works, not for the stadium or any of the associated club developments. "They would contribute to the general uplift of the borough, thereby creating an area in which the club can justify hundreds of millions of pounds of investment, secure funding and be a catalyst for further regenerative investment. "A new stadium continues to be central to delivering our ambitions for this club. "At this stage we are encouraged by the level of support there is for our plans and for giving the area of Tottenham the focus and attention it deserves."