Despite claims of plans to "promote from within", Ajax sports chief Martin van Geel admitted last night: "We will find a solution for the next few months because our first choices are working at clubs or for a national team at the moment."

The Dutch FA have already told Ajax to forget about Marco van Basten, so leaving the way clear for Jol to make a return home to Holland.

Jol could yet be offered the opportunity to leave on his terms, although his club said last night that they had heard nothing from Ajax. "Tottenham have not received any approach from Ajax with regard to the manager Martin Jol," said a spokesman.