Arshavin a 'slave' - Agent

Andriy Arshavin has reportedly gone on strike at Zenit St Petersburg to try and engineer a move away with Spurs known to be keen.

The Russia international was one of the players of the tournament at this summer's Euro 2008 showpiece and his fine displays have started a bidding war between Europes elite for his signature.

Barcelona have already had two offers rejected while it is thought the player himself is keen on a move to North London with Spurs believed to be leading the chase.

However, the move could be in jeopardy following the 27-year-old's refusal to play as Zenit were sent crashing out of the Russian Cup yesterday.

Adding to Arshavin's frustration is the fact the Uefa Cup holders are refusing to budge from their £27million valuation which Spurs see as far to high for the player.

Arshavin's agent, Dennis Lachter, has now borrowed a phrase from Fifa president Sepp Blatter - when speaking about Cristiano Ronaldo - and described his representative as being treated like a 'slave'.

Speaking to The Independent, he said: "This is the Russian way. Nothing will change because this is the old Soviet Union way. For the Russian sports establishment the desires of the player mean absolutely nothing.

"They are the big bosses. It is a dictatorship. He is a slave."