Spurs’ Euro quest won’t come Inter players’ minds at West Ham, insists AVB

Monday, February 25, 2013
1.21 PM

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas insists his players’ focus will not be distracted in tonight’s clash at West Ham by the Europa League glamour tie against Inter Milan that lies ahead next month.

Spurs grabbed a last-gasp draw in Lyon on Thursday to set up a last-16 meeting with the Serie A giants but a London derby at Upton Park is now the most pressing challenge.

Victory against a Hammers side fighting against potential relegation will see the Lilywhites leapfrog Chelsea into third place in the Premier League and further strengthen their bid for Champions League qualification.

The Portuguese also wants to go all the way this year in the Europa League and when asked about how his team will cope fighting on two fronts, Villas-Boas said: “It won’t really be difficult.

“I think the boys are really committed to their Champions League objective.

“I think the boys will be up for it. We have done well in the league after the European ties.”