Mauricio Pochettino has backed Tottenham to rise to the occasion when they begin their first Champions League campaign under his management.
This will be the second time Spurs compete in Europe’s main club competition, after they reached the quarter-finals under Harry Redknapp in 2010-11.
Spurs face CSKA Moscow, Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco in the group stage and Pochettino is confident his players will deliver – especially in front of 90,000 at Wembley in their home games.
“The Champions League is a big motivation for every player and, with respect to the Europa League, it is not the same,” said Pochettino. “It is the top competition in the world and for that we are very motivated to play in it.
“We are very excited because it will be my first opportunity to play Champions League football as a manager. This will be very exciting for me and for the players too.
“For many players, it is their first time in the Champions League. To play at Wembley is another exciting opportunity for us, in front of 90,000 supporters. It will be a great moment for Tottenham and our fans.”
Meanwhile, Tottenham are in talks with Crystal Palace about signing Wilfried Zaha for £15million. It is possible chairman Daniel Levy may offer fringe players to the Eagles as part of the deal.
Pochettino did not speak specifically about Zaha but when asked if he wanted quick, attacking midfielders, he replied: “Yes, I would like a player like this.
“We have improved because now we have two strikers [Harry Kane and Vincent Janssen]. Now I think we need some players in the second line of attack, to help the team compete better and have more quality in the squad.
“It will be a very tough season, playing in the Champions League and other very tough competitions.”
