Spurs' generous offer

Tottenham's £5million bid for Paul Robinson and James Milner was turned down even though they were prepared to let Leeds keep both players until the end of the season.

Spurs' double swoop for the England goalkeeper and the teenage midfielder would have provided the crisis club with the cash injection they need until the end of the season and allow the players to help the team's relegation fight.

It is believed Newcastle made a similar offer in their £5m bid for Alan Smith.

Leeds told Spurs they would only be interested if the offer was doubled but they are unlikely to increase their bid with Leeds only four days away from administration.

Instead, Spurs may now return with an increased, single offer for 24-year-old Robinson.

Spurs are also playing a waiting game with Nottingham Forest over winger Andy Reid, but may be tempted to return with an improved offer following their failure to land Milner. Their original offer of between £2.5m and £4m was rejected by Forest.

Spurs visit Manchester City for Sunday's fourth-round FA Cup tie looking to extend their unbeaten record in 2004.