Tottenham stadium news: The only way is MK as London says NO to Spurs

Spurs to consult fans about playing at Milton Keynes as the Capital's clubs rule out ground sharing
Ground for concern: stadium:mk, which is 48.6 miles from White Hart Lane, is an option on the table
GETTY
Paul Smith11 September 2014

Tottenham have vowed to consult their fans about playing at Milton Keynes after London’s football clubs ruled out ground sharing.

Spurs are desperate to find a temporary home — probably for season 2017-18 — while their new ground is being built next to White Hart Lane.

However, any hopes of a ground share within London have just about vanished — with Spurs’s rival clubs, or even venues like Wembley or Twickenham rugby ground, either unwilling or unable to come to their rescue.

There remains a slim chance they could gatecrash West Ham’s new home at the Olympic Stadium, a decision that technically would be made by the venue’s owners, the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC).

But given both clubs clashed bitterly over who should be handed the tenancy of the stadium, it is highly likely West Ham would resist such a move. That almost certainly forces Spurs out of London to stadium:mk, which is 48.6 miles from White Hart Lane. Such a move could infuriate Spurs fans, who will not fancy the long trip up the M1 every match day.

Spurs' stadium options - pros and cons

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An insider said: “Spurs are acutely worried about the fans’ reaction and will listen long and hard to what they say.

“If there’s an angry backlash against travelling to Milton Keynes, that could change everything.”

MK Dons were unwilling to comment this morning but it is understood they would welcome Spurs. Their ground is being expanded to a 32,000 capacity for three Rugby World Cup matches next year, while they accommodated 28,000 for last month’s Capital One Cup victory against Manchester United.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger today appeared to rule out a ground share, when asked about the issue during his weekly press conference.

"Geographically it's a solution but you understand as well that's a very sensitive subject. I don't think that will happen," he responded before confirming that there had been no communication from Spurs on the matter.

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