From Wednesday’s Metro :
After a week in which chairman Daniel Levy and his board have endured intense criticism for their apparrent attempts to replace boss Martin Jol, Spurs announced London Evening Standard reporters would be barred from attending games and press conferences at the training ground.
Tottenham are unhappy at a number of articles by Standard columnist Matthew Norman (above) about the club, and Levy in particular.
In a statement Spurs said: ‘Please note this decision has been taken by the club’s management board, not in haste and at a time when quite simply “enough is enough”.
‘The timing of this is in no way related to comments generated as a result of the past few days’ events – Matthew Norman’s personal attacks continue regardless of what happens at the club.’
However, the Standard has defended its coverage, with fellow columnist David Mellor quick to rush to Norman’s support.
Writing in Tuesday’s Standard, Mellor described Levy’s recent actions as ‘so crass that even Pravda in the bad old days might have felt constrained to utter a little coded criticism of his behaviour.’
While Chelsea acolyte Mellor makes a valid point for once, in terms of public sympathies, his coming to Norman’s defense is not entirely unlike Ron Artest speaking out on behalf of Michael Vick. Ie., thanks for the support, pal, but perhaps you could’ve just sent a text message.