Spurs fail with shock Royals swoop

Reading striker Kevin Doyle is the player that Tottenham made a failed attempt to land on deadline day, according to reports.

Spurs sporting director Damien Comolli made a desperate phone call to Reading on Monday evening making a bid for Doyle but was told no deal by the Royals.

It would appear that a day of dithering from Tottenham cost them the chance to land the Republic of Ireland international, who also attracted interest from Aston Villa and Sunderland.

Doyle, who is away on international duty, was desperate to make the move from the Championship new boys, but the clock was ticking and there was little chance of doing a deal after leaving it so late in the day.

Spurs are likely to continue to monitor Doyle's form over the next few months with a view to making a move in January.