Spurs release extra tickets to boost number of Hearts fans in London

Supporters groups had been left disappointed when it was announced only 1800 tickets would be available to travelling fans from Edinburgh - but were yesterday buoyed by news that an extra 610 would be up for grabs.

And it is now also expected that thousands who don't manage to get tickets will make the journey to London for the second leg tie at the 36,000-seat White Hart Lane on August 25.

It is understood the original ticket numbers apportioned to the Hearts support was equal to that offered to both Inter Milan and AC Milan during their Champion's League campaign last season. Safety concerns meant an upper tier in the away end at White Hart Lane was off-limits to visiting fans from foreign clubs.

It is thought this red tape has been waived for the Hearts clash.

Derek Watson, chairman of Hearts Supporters Trust, praised the efforts of his club for helping to increase the away support at the match, adding that he hopes a further batch will be released before the big game.

"I just have to say well done to Hearts for getting these extra tickets for the fans," he said.

"Hopefully, if required, they will be able to get some more before the game as I would expect them to sell all their tickets fairly quickly.

But he added: "The amount of tickets sold will probably depend on the first leg score but I think they could easily sell double what they had been originally allocated."

Lord Foulkes, the former Hearts chairman, said: "I've been talking to a lot of people who are going, including Hearts supporters who go all over Europe, and they are looking forward to this hugely.

"The general feeling I have is that a large number of Hearts fans, even if they don't have tickets, will want to be down in Trafalgar Square and in the pubs for the atmosphere."

He added: "It's a unique occasion. London is easy to get to and people also won't be put off by the recent events."

A Hearts spokesperson said: "We are very grateful to Tottenham for the increased allocation. We are well aware of the difficulties that have affected Spurs and its community in recent days but they have made every effort to satisfy our request for more tickets.

"Hearts have historically had a very vociferous but most importantly well behaved travelling support in both European and domestic competitions and we are confident that this played a part in helping us secure the increased allocation."

Next Thursday's first leg at Tynecastle is already a sell-out, but fans will be able to watch all the action unfold on ITV4. The second leg clash will also be screened on the Freeview, satellite and cable channel.

Hearts fans snapped up all the tickets for next Thursday's home leg within hours of going on sale on Saturday morning. Spurs have received a 1200 allocation for the trip to Edinburgh.

New Hearts manager, Paulo Sergio, insists his team are not in the tie just to make up the numbers. Speaking recently, he said: "It's going to be great and we don't have to fear. We have to show courage."

[email protected]