West Ham opener brings back memories for Chris

Memories of his Spurs debut came flooding back for Chris Perry when it was confirmed we’ll begin the 2014-15 season with an away game at West Ham.

Our former defender, who was back at White Hart Lane recently to play in Ledley King’s Testimonial, made his first competitive appearance in a Lilywhite shirt when we travelled to Upton Park on the opening day of the 1999-2000 campaign.

And although a first half strike from Frank Lampard consigned us to a 1-0 defeat on that occasion, the former Wimbledon centre-half believes we’re capable of faring better when we kick off the forthcoming season with an identical fixture.

“I think it’s going to be tough,” said the 41-year-old, who scored four goals in 146 appearances for us before departing for Charlton Athletic in 2003. “For me it’s about how Spurs learn from the game at West Ham in May.

“If the players can learn from that, maybe stop the service in to Andy Carroll up front, then they’ve got every chance of winning.”

Recalling his Tottenham bow in the same fixture 15 years ago, Chris added: “It was enjoyable and before the game I was really looking forward to it.

“It can be tough at Upton Park – especially when Spurs go there – and so it was one of those games that you’re really looking forward to but at the same time a bit apprehensive of as well.

“I’d been at the Club all pre-season and when the season starts you just want to get the shirt on and play in a proper game rather than all the pre-season matches.

“Obviously it was disappointing to lose the game 1-0. It was a really tight match, they got the goal and unfortunately we couldn’t score in reply.

“I thought I did OK in the match to be honest. It was a time for me to just get used to playing with the boys and the whole responsibility that goes with playing for Tottenham.”