Redknapp: Our White Hart pain

Tottenham's players were distraught at their failure to mark Bill Nicholson's death with a win.

But, unlike Jacques Santini, the squad did not let the disappointment of Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Bolton prevent them paying tribute to Spurs' greatest manager.

Captain Jamie Redknapp said: "We were desperate to put on a show. We feel we let ourselves down because we wanted to win as a tribute."

Robbie Keane added: "The emotion of the fans shows what a hugely respected figure he was. He's set the standards for this club and anyone who could achieve even half what he managed here will have done a great job."

Santini insisted his behaviour was in no way a snub to Nicholson's memory.

Instead of talking to the media, the Spurs head coach claimed he was analysing the match video with a view to Wednesday's Carling Cup match - also against Bolton.

Santini said: "There is no way I would insult the memory of Bill Nicholson in that way.''

Spurs have started a book of remembrance for Nicholson which fans can sign at the ground from 8am each day.

Sam Allardyce's side took an 11th-minute lead through Radhi Jaidi. Spurs hit back with Keane's first goal of the season before Henrik Pedersen secured the points.