God loves a trier, but there's about as much chance of Arsenal fan James Whitley being the next Spurs manager as there is of Tony Adams nodding the winner in for Germany in this year's European Championship final.

But never say never. James, 36, an account manager from Rochester, hit the headlines back in 2016, with an application to be England manager, before going on to target a number of other clubs including Hull City and Guangzhou Evergrande Taobao FC in China.

All attempts failed, but now he's got his eyes on another top position following the departure of José Mourinho from Tottenham Hotspur in April, and he's hoping his long-term devotion to North London rivals Arsenal won't stand in his way.

"Dear Mr Levy," writes James, in a letter addressed to club owner Daniel Levy. "I hope that you will consider me for the position of Manager of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.

"As I have outlined below I am an excellent communicator and have shown myself to be effective at communicating with individuals at different levels throughout the football hierarchy.

"I'll be honest, I had been considering my retirement from football management.

"However, the fact you've given Ryan Mason a gig has really spurred me on to reconsider. Every time I apply for a job I receive a reply to say don't have the relevant experience. Therefore I've caught you red handed, as neither does Ryan Mason."

James goes onto make a number of criticisms of Mr Levy's decision making, which might not help his case - but he hopes a revolutionary approach might win him the job.

"Obviously the pandemic has completely changed the landscape for football but also for us as a country," he adds. "My current employers don't foresee me going back into the office at all, as working from home is now a thing.

"Therefore, when appointed I'd like to be a full time remote worker. Jose couldn't get the best out of the team with his gung-ho approach and I think it's time for a more hands off style manager.

"I just like being paid a lot of money for not actually doing anything - a lot like Dele Alli this last 12 months."

And he says he has a five year plan for the team, adding: "I have a proven track record of planning for the future and as an example of this; I already know that I'm going to have chill con carne for dinner next Wednesday. Do you like chilli? I do."

Needless to say, it's unlikely that anyone high up at Tottenham will get too hot under the collar about James' application.

Nevertheless, he remains hopeful after a number of high-profile candidates turned down the role.

"Nobody wants it do they," said James, when asked how he rates his chances, "so as far as I'm concerned I'm a shoe in."

"Well either that or they'll quickly give him the boot."

Tottenham Hotspur FC have been approached for a comment.

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