Spurs swoop for Canadian star

Tottenham today confirmed the signing of Canadian defender Paul Stalteri on a free transfer from Werder Bremen.

The 27-year-old becomes the club's third new recruit for next season following the January signings of Teemu Tainio and Tom Huddlestone.

Stalteri joined Bremen in 1997 and won the Bundesliga title and German Cup with them and went on to play eight times in this season's Champions League.

As Standard Sport revealed last month, Spurs have been tracking the Canadian international for some time. He will provide cover at right-back for injured Frenchman Noe Pamarot but can operate in a number of positions.

Meanwhile, head coach Martin Jol is convinced Paul Robinson will remain at Tottenham.

The England goalkeeper, who is in contract talks with the club, has been linked with Manchester United and Barcelona.

But Jol said: "There is not a shadow of a doubt in my mind that he is even thinking about leaving."

Midfielder Rohann Ricketts was today released by the club. Sporting director Frank Arnesen said: "He was not involved in the first team a lot over the last season and it is much better for him to move on."