Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp admits they almost lost matchwinner Niko Kranjcar during the winter market to Werder Bremen.
The Croatia midfielder struck the winner in victory over Bolton Wanderers.
Redknapp said: "He didn't want to move and I didn't want to push him out.
"Last year he was one of the players of the season. He trains hard, he has a great attitude, he doesn't spit his dummy out when he is not in the side and you need good people. He trains every day of his life as if his life depends on it.
"It's hard for him. We've got Gareth Bale and Lennon and Luka Modric and it's difficult to guarantee him a regular place."
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