Fulham defender Brede Hangeland won’t leave Fulham in January – because he owes Roy Hodgson one.

The Norwegian centre-half has been linked with a £6million switch to Tottenham Hotspur when the transfer window re-opens in the New Year.

Hangeland has helped the Whites to the fourth-best defensive record in the Premiership, conceding 11 goals, only bettered by high-flyers Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United.

He played under boss Hodgson at Viking, and the lanky defender has promised he won’t jump ship and desert the man who brought him to English football.

“Obviously I’m here because of him,” said Hangeland.

“I will always owe him, and will try and do my best to keep him happy every Saturday.

“I’ve got a contract for two more years, and the way things are going I can see myself staying here a long time. It’s a great club.”