Published: 4 October, 2012
by DAN CARRIER

SPURS manager Andre Villas-Boas firmly silenced his critics with Tottenham’s thrilling 3-2 victory at Old Trafford on Sunday – and promptly dampened down the joy of the win by ­saying it would be a big battle to finish in the top four.

“It is an important win for us, for the impact it has,” he said afterwards. “But we are a long way away and we have to continue to make progress. We have to get as many points as possible to reach the objective for the season – which is Champions League qualification.”

Steven Caulker was singled out for special praise. The rookie played at the heart of the defence, with Jan Vertonghen being moved to left back. Veteran William Gallas said afterwards his team-mate was a certainty to be an England regular. “He listens,” said the defender. “He is not afraid to play football.”

For Spurs fans, the joy of the victory was added to by the appearances of Tom Huddlestone and Michael Dawson.
The popular players had both been tipped for moves during the summer – but now their futures seem to be at the club as they both made their returns from long term injuries.

Spurs now face struggling Aston Villa at home on Sunday and AVB is expected to start with lone striker Jermain Defoe. 

Emmanuel Adebayor – who is yet to make a start this term – has, however, returned to training after his hamstring injury and could be in contention.