Source: Daily_Mail
Clarence Seedorf says Mathieu Flamini's tackle on Vedran Corluka was 'made in England'
Clarence Seedorf sprang to the defence of Mathieu Flamini last night and claimed it was English football that moulded AC Milan's tough-tackling midfielder. [LNB]Flamini is assured of a hostile reception from Tottenham fans as a former Arsenal player who committed a nasty two-footed tackle on Vedran Corluka in the first leg of this Champions League tie, which left the Spurs defender writhing in agony. [LNB] Down but not out: Corluka hasn't played since Flamini's shocking challenge at the San Siro[LNB]'I have seen a lot of those challenges in the Premier League,' said Seedorf. 'A lot of players in the Premier League play that way. It is part of the game in England and he brought it to Italy. Simple. [LNB]'Flamini has only one way. He will approach it like all the games and he is ex-Arsenal and we all know the rivalry between the teams.' [LNB]Corluka is fit to play at White Hart Lane for the first time since the Flamini challenge injured his ankle. Rafael van der Vaart is also back for Spurs after a calf injury to play against Seedorf, who inspired him at Ajax while winning the first of four Champions League titles. [LNB] Horror show: Corluka was lucky to escape without any broken bones following Flamini's two-footed lunge [LNB]'It was a long time ago,' said Van der Vaart. 'I was only 12 years old but I was already at Ajax and playing with his younger brother. Clarence is an example for us all. To win the Champions League four times is unbelievable. It is an honour to play against him.' [LNB]Seedorf will be captain at White Hart Lane in the absence of several senior players, including Gennaro Gattuso, banned for headbutting Spurs assistant manager Joe Jordan after the stormy first leg. [LNB]Seedorf was proud to be credited with a role in the development of Van der Vaart, who is seeking to equal his personal best in the Champions League by helping Tottenham into the quarter-finals. [LNB] Outmuscled: Milan were second best during much of the first leg[LNB]'I am happy if I have been able toinspire Rafael as I was inspired by others when I was young,' said the34-year-old midfielder. [LNB]'He is a great asset for Tottenham and I am happy he has found a good home.' Spurs announce new ?50m kit deal with US manufacturer Under ArmourFlamini: I'm an Arsenal man, I love to duel with Spurs. I'm just like NapoleonSpurs boss Redknapp says it's 'touch and go' whether Bale will face MilanAll the latest Tottenham news, features and opinion[LNB] Explore more:Places: United Kingdom, Italy
