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Ange Postecoglou insists he has too much on his plate to worry about an investigation by the Football Association into a potential breach of agent rules during a 2008 transfer which involves Tottenham.
According to The Times, an unlicensed representative may have been involved in the negotiations for Jermain Defoe’s move from Tottenham Hotspur to Portsmouth during the 2008 winter transfer period.
The Football Association (FA) has informed the PA news agency that they are currently reviewing the situation, which involved an arbitration hearing during Defoe’s transfer to Fratton Park in the 2007-08 season. PA has reached out to Tottenham for a response.
No action was taken against any party involved in the transfer, but with Spurs dealing with a growing injury list ahead of Sunday’s visit of Aston Villa in the Premier League, any potential punishment is far from Postecoglou’s mind.
“In 2008, I believe I was coaching Brisbane Roar. It’s safe to say I wasn’t present during that time,” he stated.
”
“Honestly, do you believe that would come to my attention? Currently, people are avoiding me as there is a more pressing matter at hand – our upcoming crucial game on Sunday.”
“Given the challenges we are facing within the team, that is currently my main priority.”
“I don’t have that information, friend. In order for me to provide an answer, I would need to meet with the person conducting the investigation and gather all the necessary information. This would take a significant amount of time.”
I’m not sure if you’ve dedicated time to that, but I don’t have the availability in my schedule to evaluate those types of problems.
“As the designated spokesperson for the football club, I am responsible for addressing any issues or concerns related to the team.”
I would strongly dislike it if you brought in a lawyer to discuss our weekend formation.
Given the problems we are facing within the team, my main focus is on addressing them.
”
I will refrain from speaking about those matters, not for any particular reason, but out of consideration for the personal boundaries of others and myself.
“If you have genuine inquiries regarding that, there are likely more suitable individuals to seek advice from than myself.”
The FA representative informed PA that they are currently examining the situation and will be reassessing the decision of the arbitration panel.
Source: independent.co.uk
