Derby Eve and Spurs Defender Arrested

On the eve of the London Derby, as speculation abounds around Martin Jol's future, comes the news that Chimbonda was arrested and questioned in the government inquiry into football transfers. Spurs were certainly eager to deflect negative press coverage with this story about Chimbonda's trip to a primary school and Jol's decision to select him tomorrow suggests the club is confident it will not affect his play.

The Guardian reports that police are interested in Chimbonda's move to Wigan not Tottenham. The Times suggests that Chimbonda is not a target of the investigation and, while unfamiliar with the British legal system, I wonder if he was arrested or simply brought in for questioning.

The Independent has a description of the alleged targets of the investigation:

The police have been investigating suspected tax fraud and money laundering – which covers such matters as tax evasion or taking a back-hander in a deal – in relation to player transfers.

The inquiry is thought to focus on two deals in particular: Amdy Faye's £2m move from Portsmouth to Newcastle United and Jean-Alain Boumsong's transfer from Rangers to Newcastle for £8.2m. Both took place in January 2005.

Better news is that, for the first time this season, Spurs will have their first options available to start on the wings. Against the Gunners the pace of Lennon and Bale will probably not provide a great advantage, but their attacking speed in future fixtures should be lethal.

Wenger will go with second-choice keeper Almunia, as Jens Lehmann has been ruled out with an elbow injury.