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Ryan Nelsen is on the verge of joining one of the biggest clubs in
the world. Photo: FIFA via Getty Images |
Nelsen's signing is yet to be officially confirmed as the club is awaiting international clearance but hope to be able to wrap up the deal today.
The drama of the 34-year-old's departure from Blackburn Rovers and subsequent signing for Spurs - on a six-month contract with a one-year option - unfolded quickly yesterday, the final day of the English January transfer window.
He was the target of a surprise late swoop by Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp, a long-term admirer of Nelsen who tried to sign the Kiwi when he was in charge at former club Portsmouth in 2006.
Nelsen's move to the North London giants was made more straightforward by a deadline-day release from his Blackburn contract, a development which meant he became a free agent and has given Spurs more time to complete the deal.
"It's just an exciting opportunity at this stage of my career," Nelsen told The Press.
"I've loved my time at Blackburn but it's something I just couldn't turn down. There are some unbelievably good players there, it will just be exciting to start training with them."
The eyebrows of many onlookers have been raised by the move as Nelsen has been battling a knee injury and has played only one game all season, Blackburn's 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa in mid-August.
But he took part in a behind-closed-doors friendly for Blackburn this week and will soon be available for selection by Redknapp.
"The knee felt really great but my match fitness isn't where I'd like it to be yet," he said.
Spurs beat Wigan 3-1 earlier on deadline day and following the win, which solidified Tottenham's place in third on the Premier League table, Redknapp expressed his interest in Nelsen's services.
"Ryan is a great competitor and a good sort to have around the place," he said. "I've always liked him."
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