Teemu Tainio knows exactly what awaits us as we get ready to face three MLS teams in our tour of North America – he’s been in a MLS dressing room with Spurs in town.
Our former midfielder played 42 times for the New York Red Bulls in 2011 and 2012 and - turn the clock back to July, 2012 - lined-up against us for the Red Bulls at the Red Bull Arena, a match we came from behind in to win 2-1 with Gylfi Sigurdsson curling home a fine winner.
Finnish international Teemu, whose all-action style made him a favourite at the Lane between 2005-2008, insists our MLS opponents – Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday, Toronto FC on Wednesday (July 23) and Chicago Fire on Saturday week (July 26) – will be up for the challenge.
“I remember playing against Spurs a couple of years ago and for MLS teams, it’s a very big game,” said Teemu, who was back at the Lane for Ledley King’s Testimonial in May.
“Believe me, they will all want to beat Spurs. It’s always good to play in these matches and the MLS teams will relish the challenge.
“Seattle, Toronto and Chicago will be in the middle of the MLS season, so it will be tough for Spurs, but ideal in terms of pre-season.”