Poyet told he is next in line for manager's job

Tottenham have told Gustavo Poyet he is next in line for the manager's job at White Hart Lane in a bid to prevent him from going to Newcastle.

Poyet is still in the frame for the vacant post at St James' Park despite issuing a denial of any interest in the job last night and Spurs insist they have not received a formal approach.

Manager Juande Ramos, whose contract still has three years left to run, doesn't want to lose Poyet and is keen to help the 40-year-old fulfil his ambitions of taking over in the future.

Poyet, whose family are settled in London, certainly seemed to be edging towards committing his future last night by saying: "I'm very happy here.

"This is just speculation and it's all too easy because of my relationship with Dennis Wise."