West Bromwich Albion v Tottenham Hotspur
The FA Cup, Fourth Round
The Hawthorns
29 January 2005



Martin Jol is still wondering how he managed to fill the boots of Bryan Robson as he prepares to face his opposite number in The FA Cup on Saturday.

Jol became a hero in the Black Country during his playing days when he was signed to replace Robson who joined Manchester United in 1981.

And even though the Dutchman took no time adjusting to the rigours of English football, he never knew at the time he would be replacing Robson at the heart of the West Brom midfield.

Jol has hailed Robson as a 'legend' in the game, but is hoping to inflict cup misery on his former side West Brom.

The Tottenham Hotspur boss is relishing his return to the Hawthorns for a crucial FA Cup Fourth Round clash.

Jol said: "Bryan Robson was a terrific player and he is a legend. No-body could follow in his footsteps because I played against him a few times and he was on a different planet.

"Luckily enough for me I didn't know I would be replacing Robson in the team when I signed and they told me later.

"I arrived with my Dutch colleague Romeo Zondervan. We had a very good spell and everyone was happy.

"I can still remember the games we played against Tottenham and they were all good games. They had an unbelievable team with the likes of Ardiles, Hoddle, Archibald and Crooks.

"Visiting the Hawthorns again is like going home. It's a lovely family club. I still have friends there - Gary Owen, Clive Whitehead, Alistair Robertson."

Jol is relieved Robson has managed to turn things around at West Brom and received unfair criticism during the first few weeks he was in charge.

But the Tottenham head-coach will have no sympathy if his side progress into the Fifth Round and is hoping Robson will have one eye on his next game against Crystal Palace in the Premiership.

Jol added: "They were a bit harsh on him when he first went to West Brom, but it was not his team and he had to wait for the transfer window.

"But he has turned the corner and they have enjoyed a good run of form. They look a different team now.

"I know they have to play Palace on Tuesday and that is a very important game for them.

"I know how important The FA Cup is and it's very important for us. It is a short route to getting into Europe."