'We had to keep the ball' - Gylfi

Keeping possession away from the hosts was vital to our victory at Stoke on Saturday, according to Gylfi Sigurdsson.

Our Icelandic international midfielder went on as a second half substitute as we defended the 1-0 lead given to us in the first half by Danny Rose’s header.

The Potters – operating with 10 men after the dismissal of Ryan Shawcross seven minutes after half-time – still conjured up a couple of chances to equalise, but Gylfi was happy to see us close out the game to make sure of the three points.

“Stoke had a man sent off so the most important thing for us was trying to keep the ball and making them chase it,” said Gylfi, who replaced Nacer Chadli after 72 minutes at the Britannia Stadium.

“They were always dangerous on counter attacks, crossing the ball and getting people into the box, but what Tim said was to try and keep the ball and get Stoke chasing it.

“It’s always tough coming to Stoke, but we kept a clean sheet and got the three points so it’s good for us.”

Gylfi also joined Christian Eriksen in praising Danny for his goal on Saturday. The left-back nodded home Emmanuel Adebayor’s cross for what was only his second Premier League goal in a Spurs shirt – the first being his unforgettable strike against Arsenal back in 2010.

“We’re buzzing for him,” Gylfi smiled. “Obviously he got his goal against Arsenal a few years ago and now he’s got another one.

“It was a great header from him, coming in on the back post and hitting the target, so I’m pleased for him.”