Tottenham's Christian Ziege has been told he has 10 games to win himself a new contract at White Hart Lane. Spurs director of football David Pleat denied the German international's claims that his deal will not be renewed in the summer.
A serious thigh injury kept Ziege out for more than a year, and Pleat said the German now has to prove himself.
"He has to show us he is worthy of a new contract, we'll take every player on his merits," said Pleat.
Pleat denied a decision had been taken on the future of Ziege, or other Spurs players whose deals are running out.
Ziege, Darren Anderton and Gus Poyet may be forced to accept reduced terms in order to stay at White Hart Lane.
Pleat said: "With regard to any player in their 30s whose contract is expiring, in keeping with other clubs who are all doing the same, we'll not speak to those players and discuss a new contract - whether it is for more money or less money - until the end of the season.
"We don't have to, it is as simple as that.
"We are not being chased by the players to have to retain them, the ball has swung a little bit into the other court."
Ziege made a solid return in Spurs' 1-0 win over Newcastle, while Jamie Redknapp made a long awaited return with a 20-minute substitute appearance.
Pleat said: "Jamie played for exactly a quarter of the game and I can only judge him on that.
"Jamie brings a composure and a calm to the game and he did make us pass the ball better.
"He made one or two super touches and in the last 22 minutes we started to play and we looked a team, no question."
MMIX
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Jamie brings a composure and a calm to the game 