Published: 26 January, 2012
by DAN CARRIER

SPURS midfielder Sandro is confident that his team-mates have shaken off the controversial defeat at Manchester City just in time for tomorrow (Friday’s) FA Cup clash away at Watford.

The Brazilian is in contention for the trip to Vicarage Road having recovered from a calf injury and has already got one eye on Wembley.

“The FA Cup is such a big competition and everyone in Brazil knows all about it,” he said.

“We would love to go all the way and we think we have the players to make it to the final.”

Sandro gave boss Harry Redknapp a much-needed boost this week after revealing on Twitter that he is “feeling good and getting stronger every day” following a spell on the sidelines.

Tottenham should not face too tough a test from the Hornets, who are currently lying 18th in the Championship having lost their last three league games.

Redknapp, who is currently on trial over tax issues at the crown court, is expected to make the trip to Watford. His assistants Kevin Bond and Joe Jordan have been preparing the team for the fourth-round tie.

Sandro also offered words of hope to supporters by insisting Spurs can still win the Premier League despite Sunday’s defeat at Manchester City.
“We’ve still got our minds on the title. We’ve got to think bigger than just a Champions League place.”

Meanwhile north London rivals Arsenal face a tougher test in the fourth round of the FA Cup as Aston Villa prepare to visit the Emirates on Sunday.
Manager Arsene Wenger has been given a timely boost with the news that Thierry Henry and Mikel Arteta are both expected to be fit for the game after missing Sunday’s 2-1 defeat against Manchester United with calf injuries.

Long-term absentees Kieran Gibbs and Bacary Sagna are also close to returning to full training, although the Villa game has come too soon for the defenders.