Spurs Transfer News: Schneiderlin Admits Move Was Blocked

Southampton's French midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has admitted that his club blocked a move to Spurs this summer, but has stated that he has a commitment to the Saints that he is prepared to see out. Speaking to the Express, Schneiderlin - who was hotly tipped to join up with former boss Mauricio Pochettino at White Hart Lane - opened up for the first time about how potential moves to Spurs or Arsenal stalled after Southampton had already sold a number of key players to Premier League rivals.

I was blocked but I must accept that because I have three years remaining on my contract. I could not afford to make a fuss and not play. I owe a lot to Southampton, who enabled me to make the France national team. I could not afford to go and clash with supporters who have always been cool with me.

Spurs ended up signing Schneiderlin's fellow Frenchman Benjamin Stambouli. The uncapped battler is in the same mould as the Southampton midfielder, but remains uncapped at this stage. Stambouli cost £4.7 million from Montpellier and, having yet to appear in a Spurs shirt, has yet to convince Lilywhites fans that he is at the same level as Schneiderlin. Southampton's four times capped French international midfielder has scored two Premier League goals already, just three games into the season, convincing fans that he is committed to the club in the process. Do you think Schneiderlin should have been allowed to leave Southampton? Is Benjamin Stambouli a suitable alternative to his fellow countryman? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. And please feel free to follow me on Twitter!