Asteras vs Spurs - Mauricio's preview

Mauricio Pochettino is aware of the importance of tonight’s Europa League clash to Asteras Tripolis, but countered: “It’s a big game for us as well.”

Asteras Tripolis have risen from the lower tiers to the elite level of Greek football – the Greek Super League - in the last 10 years and have finished sixth, third and fifth in the last three seasons.

“We know it’s a big game for them and it’s important to be focused, to be ready and to go onto the pitch with the mentality that in front of us, we have a very good team and a team with a big motivation to play well in this game,” said Mauricio, who was keen to stress that our 5-1 victory against Asteras a fortnight ago will have little bearing on tonight’s encounter.

“Every game is different and this is a different moment,” he added.

“They now play at home in front of their supporters and these are always tough games in the Europa League in a different environment.

“We need to be ready, to be focused on ourselves and try to win the game, that’s our objective.”

We’re level at the top of Group C with Besiktas on five points with Asteras on four and Partizan Belgrade on two – victory tonight would see us take a big stride towards qualification with two matches remaining, Partizan at the Lane on November 27 and a trip to Istanbul to face Besiktas on December 11.

“It’s an important three points as we try to go through to the next round,” said Mauricio. “We expect a tough game, it’s a big game for them but for us too, we need to win this game.”

Tickets for our next home game in the Europa League against Partizan Belgrade - priced at just £25 for Adults - are available now - FOLLOW THIS LINK...