MIKE McKINLEY: Modric should be first of several big signings

As predictable as things may be on the pitch (I take it we were all heavily backing 1-1 for the correct score?), dear old Spurs showed they have the capacity to spring a big surprise. I confess that I know Luka Modric more by reputation than from observ

As predictable as things may be on the pitch (I take it we were all heavily backing 1-1 for the correct score?), dear old Spurs showed they have the capacity to spring a big surprise.

I confess that I know Luka Modric more by reputation than from observation, but there's no doubt he caught the eye in helping to ensure England have a summer off.

In this internet age of rumours and supposed inside information, it was almost the fact that the signing came out of nowhere that made it so enjoyable.

It's a pretty big and bold statement of intent from the club, and hopefully will be the first of several top-notch new arrivals.

Inevitably the flip side will be talk of departures, and one name in particular. If Dimitar Berbatov's departure is as inevitable as some would have us believe, then this is another test for the club's directors to manage well for us.

Obviously, we'd like to cash in massively if he is off, but also I wouldn't want to see him lining up against us next season.

It makes no sense to send one of our superstars to the teams we have aspirations of catching. Challenge two then becomes acquiring an adequate replacement, and who would fancy that job?

Barring a repeat of last weekend's excitement, that conundrum lies in the future. Having reprieved Bolton with some rotten finishing, Reading must be hoping we'll also give generously to their survival campaign.

While a repeat of the 6-4 rollercoaster isn't too likely, you'd fancy both sides to score as our porous defence is bound to give Reading's lacklustre attack something. One apiece it is then, just for a change.