Few English footballers have played with such mesmerizing skill and style as Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle. During his time at White Hart Lane, Hoddle was the yardstick against which all players were measured, with his superb close control, ability to beat defenders and penchant for spectacular goals. He was also one of the greatest passers of the ball the world has known. He made 377 appearances for Spurs, scoring 88 goals.
Hoddle joined the club as a schoolboy apprentice in April 1974 following the recommendation of another Tottenham legend, Martin Chivers. Hoddle's debut was as a 17-year-old substitute in August 1975. The following February he made his first start in the white shirt, announcing himself in style with a breathtaking strike against Stoke and England goalkeeper Peter Shilton. Over the next few seasons he established himself as a supremely talented playmaker and one of the most outstanding footballers Tottenham Hotspur has ever produced.
During the 1979-80 campaign Hoddle scored 19 goals in 41 league games and was awarded the PFA Young Player of the Year Award. He helped Spurs to FA Cup success in 1981 and again in 1982 when he scored in both the final and semi-final. He was also the architect of Spurs' 1984 UEFA Cup success, producing a dazzling display in a tie against Feyenoord that Tottenham won 6-2 on aggregate. Dutch legend Johan Cruyff was so impressed that he went to the Spurs' dressing room after the game to hand Hoddle his shirt.
In 1987 Hoddle joined Monaco and inspired them to the Ligue 1 championship the following year. He was voted the Best Foreign Player in French Football. Arsene Wenger, who worked with him at Monaco, said; "His control was superb and his skill in both feet was uncanny." Hoddle was capped 53 times for England, scoring eight times. On the pitch the magical midfielder inspired a new generation of players for whom technique was more important than the ability to run all day.
Born27 Oct 1957
Place Of BirthHayes, England
Height1.83 m (6' 0'')
PositionAttacking Midfielder
ClubsTottenham Hotspur, AS Monaco, Swindon Town, Chelsea
CountryEngland
Major Club HonoursTottenham Hotspur: FA Cup, 1981, 1982
UEFA Cup, 1984
AS Monaco: Ligue 1, 1988