A tempestuous, problematic former Arsenal captain who has been known for bust-ups, tantrums and strops, it was certainly a surprise to see William Gallas cross enemy lines to sign for Harry Redknapps Spurs in August 2010. It was a betrayal reminiscent of Sol Campbells move in the opposite direction in 2001, with both players having snubbed new contracts to sign for the enemy on a free transfer. Of course, this didnt nearly cause the same furore since Gallas was 33 years old, as opposed to Campbells 26 years of age. However, it did raise an eyebrow or two, with Gallas even agreeing to take a wage cut to join the North London side, after rejecting similar terms from the Gunners. Arsenal supporters duly began the process of etching Gallas out of the clubs cult hero status. Even some Spurs supporters had reservations about signing another ex-Arsenal man.
''Its all cobblers. Whats he done? Its not the Yorkshire Ripper Im signing, is it? Hes a footballer, he plays football. Hes not the first player to go from Arsenal to Tottenham or Tottenham to Arsenal. It happens all the time. Hes a great lad as well, smashing fellow. Ive been absolutely impressed with him. Hell improve Tottenham and thats all Im concerned about. - Harry Redknapp, August 2010.
The move made the Frenchman the first player to appear for Chelsea, Arsenal and Spurs, and he went on to play for the White Hart Lane side 72 times, and captained the side for the first time during a famous 3-2 victory at the Emirates Stadium. Now, that must have been a sweet occasion.