Champions League is 'unrealistic' for Spurs

14 April 2012

Tottenham may have taken small steps on the road to recapturing former glories but they are still some way off a giant leap.

That is the verdict of sporting director Frank Arnesen who today claimed it is unrealistic to expect Spurs to challenge for a Champions League place next season.

The Dane's note of caution comes in response to flattering comments by Sir Alex Ferguson in which he tipped Martin Jol's side to join the Premiership's "Big Five" in 2005-06.

Urging fans to buy into his longterm vision, Arnesen said: "It's a great compliment from one of the biggest managers in the game, but we have to realistic. To say we will challenge for the Champions League next season is going to put pressure on us.

"Now, it is enough to finish in the top 10. It is good, but we have to progress again next season. That is the aim for us and then you never know how far that can take you.

"When I came here last summer one aim was to improve on the previous year. The results are certainly better and overall I am happy with what has happened."

Spurs signed 14 last summer and a further nine in January. More new arrivals are expected, though Arnesen insists it will be a smaller intake. He said: "I think we have made a lot of good signings over the past year and we have to wait for these players develop. Our transfer activity will definitely be much less this summer."

Even so, the precise number of signings will depend on departures. Simon Davies and Robbie Keane, for example, have both been linked with summer moves.

Arnesen added: "The job is ongoing because I need to know which of the current players are going and which ones are staying."

Player recruitment will be easier if Spurs are in the UEFA Cup. To qualify, they must beat Blackburn by at least three goals on Sunday and hope for a narrow Manchester City win over Middlesbrough. Paul Robinson (knee), Noureddine Naybet (ankle) and Anthony Gardner (foot) are out.

Blackburn will be without suspended centre-back Craig Short and striker Paul Dickov, who is troubled by a groin problem. Andy Todd (leg) and Dominic Matteo (heel) are also doubtful.

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Champions League is 'unrealistic' for Spurs

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