It’s a glovely feeling for Lloris to win his Brad fight
HUGO LLORIS says his battle to claim the No.1 jersey at Tottenham has made him stronger.
The France goalkeeper had his nose put out of joint after making the move from Lyon to England when Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas kept faith with Brad Friedel, contrary to his expectations.
Now established as the first-choice keeper at White Hart Lane, Lloris reckons the experience of challenging Friedel for the position has given him even more self-belief.
“Things were very clear, that I was coming to Tottenham as the No.1,” said Lloris.
“But the manager made a decision at the start, and then made a different one a few weeks later.
“The negotiations over the move were with the chairman, but it was also the choice of the coach. I also had talks with him during that time.
“It’s not easy because I came in after the start of the season and he was already under pressure because the results were not good at that point in time.
“It’s the sort of situation which helps you grow – it’s a personal challenge.”
Threat
Spurs are the fourth-best team in the Premier League, but Lloris believes they are closing in on the two Manchester clubs and Chelsea.
The 26-year-old is part of AVB’s Champions League-chasing squad and he believes Spurs are going in the right direction to clinch a top-four finish. “Today there’s United, City and Chelsea who are a cut above and who have more financial means,” said Lloris.
“But Tottenham is just behind. The club has been trying to establish itself in the top four for some years now.”
The table certainly suggests Spurs are close to their London rivals Chelsea, with just one point separating the two clubs.
Lloris has been pleased with the start to the season but is also wary of the threat from other teams outside the top four.
He added: “For the minute, the season has been promising. But the hardest part is yet to come because there are still a number of key matches to be played and we’ll have to be ready for that.
“For the moment we are well-placed, though we’re not beyond a possible charge by Arsenal.”