Spurs v Boro - opposing manager's view

Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka is wary of a post-Sunderland backlash from our players, but has challenged his squad to overcome our challenge at White Hart Lane on Saturday.

Both sides head into the game off the back of midweek draws, Boro recovering from going a goal down to draw 1-1 at home to West Bromwich Albion while we were left frustrated following our stalemate at Sunderland.

Karanka knows both teams will be determined to return to winning ways this weekend and is keen for his charges to avoid a repeat of their first-half showing against us in our 2-1 victory at the Riverside back in September.

“It’s a tough game,” he said. “The first half at home against Spurs was one of our worst performances but then (in) the second half we showed we can compete against them.

“We have to go there with that attitude and be at 100 per cent for 95 minutes.

“They had a bad result this week so they can be dangerous – they will really want the three points but we have to focus on ourselves. Adding experience is really important and we are always improving.”

Boro snapped up Algeria international midfielder Adlène Guedioura from Watford this week and manager Karanka hopes he can play a part at the Lane.

“It’s an important signing and he wants to be with us,” he said. “I know from our games against him the experience and quality he can give. He’s played, including in the Africa Cup of Nations as well as the Premier League, so I think he can be involved this weekend.”