Ian Tuckey in The Sun writes: ‘If Martin Jol can repeat even a fraction of the improvement he brought to Spurs in his first season as boss, then they could snatch a top four spot. Aaron Lennon and Michael Dawson are fast-improving England regulars of the future, while Dimitar Berbatov should be a much better targetman than Mido.'
Last week in the same paper, Dave Kidd wrote, ‘Martin Jol still wants one more striker to compete with the Dimitar Berbatov, Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane up front. A switch back to Tottenham for Mido now looks favourite for the Egyptian.'
Tuckey adds, 'Jermain Defoe is itching to displace Robbie Keane in attack, showing the keen rivalry for places throughout the side. Didier Zokora and the all-round talent of Tom Huddlestone have joined what is already a formidable batch of central midfielders. But, despite the presence of Paul Robinson, Ledley King needs to overcome his injuries if Spurs are to at least match last season's fifth place.'
Kidd added, ‘Jol is still looking for an extra central defender. Argentine defender Roberto Ayala is keen to quit Spain before the end of the transfer window. The Spurs boss wants to add an experienced head to his promising young squad and sees Ayala — available for a nominal fee — as an ideal recruit, providing he can agree personal terms.'
Meanwhile, Calum Davenport is ahead of Anthony Gardner in the fitness stakes, to replace King in the opening game of the season at Bolton on Saturday. Davenport started just once for Spurs last term, but Gardner has been troubled by a shin injury and only played in the opening pre-season fixture against Bordeaux. In the last three friendlies, Davenport has played at the back alongside Michael Dawson.
The central defender signed from Nottingham Forest is currently on international duty with England. Spurs boss Martin Jol told the official website: "I remember his debut for us well at Liverpool (in January 2005) and he's been in the team all the time after that."
37 first team starts later, and the onus to push on further at White Hart Lane has never been greater.