Spurs told they can't buy Phillips

Sunderland moved quickly today to dismiss reports that England striker Kevin Phillips is for sale.

The 28-year-old has been linked with a £12 million move to Tottenham and the player hinted earlier in the season that he may consider a move in the summer if the club fails to qualify for Europe.

But a statement from Sunderland today read: "Kevin has a contract with the club that runs until 2005 and he has always indicated that his interests are to play for Sunderland.

"The club insists that their aim at the moment is to retain top players as well as acquire new talent. Financially, the club is in a healthy position and does not need to sell players."

Spurs have also been linked with moves for Michael Ricketts, of Bolton, and Middlesbrough's Alen Boksic. However, any buys are likely to depend on the club selling £11m forward Sergei Rebrov in the summer.

In the meantime, Tottenham manager Glenn Hoddle is hoping defender Ledley King is fit for Sunday's FA Cup tie against Tranmere after missing out on an England debut in midweek because of tonsillitis.

Midfielder Darren Anderton has a better chance of playing despite a hamstring strain forcing to withdraw from Wednesday's international against Holland.

"It was unfortunate for Ledley but I think Sven-Goran Eriksson has seen what he can do and he knows that Darren has got the experience.

"It was more of a blow for Ledley but he has the potential to overcome that and bounce back. The time is getting nearer to the World Cup but Sven picked them for this squad and I'm sure he will do so again.

"It was just one of those things for Ledley. It's unfortunate but they happen in football."

German international Christian Ziege could be in the squad against Tranmere. Ziege has been out for five weeks but an appearance this weekend could pave the way for him to play against Blackburn in the Worthington Cup Final a week on Sunday.

Hoddle said: "He had a very hard session yesterday but whether or not he will have had enough match practice is something else. A lot will depend on whether he is involved on Sunday.

"This is a great opportunity for us to get into the last eight of the FA Cup before we play in a cup final. For players trying to get into the cup final team, this is one big incentive."

Left-back Ben Thatcher is having further tests on a suspected fractured cheekbone.

Tottenham v Tranmere
4pm, Sunday, White Hart Lane

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