Spurs set for Old Trafford trip (From Haringey Independent)

Spurs set for Old Trafford trip

8:50am Friday 24th April 2009

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SPURS have just five games in which to secure a place in the new Europa League.

And boss Harry Redknapp has at last admitted he wouldn't mind doing just that.

Redknapp has publicly stated that the Premier League was always the priority and, when Tottenham had the threat of relegation hanging over them, he even went as far as to declare that the Uefa Cup had even become a hindrance.

But he said personal pride alone made him want to finish in the top seven.

He said that would be a superb achievement, seeing the Lilywhites were rock-bottom at one stage this season.

Though the Europa League could again be a distraction next season, Redknapp still wants to beat the likes of West Ham United, Fulham, Wigan Athletic and Manchester City to seventh spot.

"Getting into Europe would be a fantastic achievement," he announced.

Striker Darren Bent, who hit the winner in Sunday's 1-0 triumph over Newcastle United, added: "When you look at where we are in the table at the moment, if our start had have been a fraction better, we may have been right up there.

"Unfortunately it wasn't meant to be, but we know what we need to do now and seventh spot is where we want to be."

Though Spurs are probably favourites to claim seventh place, they will have their work cut out this weekend.

They travel to title-chasing Manchester United on Saturday.

It is a repeat of the Carling Cup final, which the Red Devils won on penalties. But at least Spurs were not 'beaten' on that day, and they are currently one of the Premier League's form sides, with even their away form picking up of late.

The games get a little 'easier' after that, but not much. With the exception of a home game against struggling West Bromwich Albion, clashes with Everton, Liverpool and Manchester City will be difficult to call.

Saturday's match at Old Trafford kicks off at 5.30pm.

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