Milos' case for the defence

Milos Veljkovic admitted he was happy to reprise his role as a centre-half on our pre-season tour of the USA and Canada.

The versatile youngster, who made two Premier League appearances in central midfield towards the end of last season, was utilised in defence by new Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino as we drew 3-3 with MLS leaders Seattle Sounders and registered respective 3-2 and 2-0 wins against Toronto FC and Chicago Fire during our week-and-a-half on the other side of the Atlantic.

It’s a position the Serbian youth international knows well, having played there several times for our Development Squad in the past – and after impressing in all three of our matches on tour, he says he’s thrilled to have the additional experience under his belt as our preparations for the 2014-15 season continue in earnest.

“I haven’t played in that position for six or seven months but the gaffer knows I can play both in midfield and at the back so I was happy to adapt to what he wanted,” said the Switzerland-born 18-year-old.

“I think I did well and I’m pleased with how it went. I played half a game alongside Younes Kaboul in Seattle and Toronto and then played with Daws for the last match against Chicago. They both helped me. I train with them every day as well so it’s good to have their guidance.

“In the third game I played 80 minutes and although I didn’t expect I would play that long, I felt it went well and that additional experience will help me going forward.”