Daughters' tribute to 'Mr Tottenham'

This season marks the 10th anniversary of the passing of our great manager, Bill Nicholson. Bill dedicated his life to our Club and his influence is as strong today as it was during the glory, glory years. Take a walk through our new, world-class Training Centre and Bill's words are carved into the walls, providing inspiration for the players to go out and play the Spurs way, all summed-up by arguably his most famous 'Echo of Glory' quote.

Bill's daughters Jean and Linda have sent us a special, moving tribute to their father, 'Mr Tottenham' that perfectly commences our celebration of Bill Nicholson and his legacy at Spurs during this anniversary year.

Tomorrow sees the launch of the Club's 2014/2015 kits, inspired by Bill Nicholson and as a tribute to his achievements at the Club.

We are also delighted to announce that, following a request to the Premier League, we shall play a home fixture on the date nearest to the 10-year anniversary (the Newcastle United match)  giving us the opportunity to celebrate Bill’s illustrious career with our Club.

Here is what Jean and Linda had to say...

"It's been my life, Tottenham Hotspur, and I love the club.”  Dad felt it was such an honour to represent the Spurs, leaving home every morning looking immaculate, thanks mainly to our mum Darkie.  

There are many quotes attributed to our dad, but one of the most recognised ends in 'an echo of glory'.  Fine words from a perfectionist who was a true Yorkshireman with the utmost integrity, and who dedicated his life to serving Tottenham Hotspur Football Club. We feel proud that these words have been chosen by the Club to be incorporated in the theme for this year's kit design, to commemorate the 10 years since we said goodbye to our dad at his special memorial service at White Hart Lane.

We fondly remember the Glory, Glory Days! Dad always expected the players to aspire to perform at their best – and for many, many years we watched as they rose to the challenge. They played for him and they played for the glory of Tottenham Hotspur. He was an inspiration to others and it was nice to know that he was well respected by people inside and outside of the game. Dad also loved to watch and support youth football as they were the players of the future.

He also loved the fans as much as they loved him. Dad used to say 'without the fans there wouldn’t be a game'.  It was a wonderful atmosphere, whether sitting or standing, at the Lane.  It was such an exciting place to be on a match day singing 'Glory, Glory, Tottenham Hotspur and the Spurs go marching on'.

But at the end of the day, when dad came home to his 'other family', all he ever wanted was a quiet family life. He often found time to kick a football around in the garden with his three grandsons, and even give them a few hints.

We dearly miss our loving dad, but we treasure all the happy memories of his 68 years at Tottenham Hotspur as a player, coach, manager and president.

Linda and Jean