Andre Villas-Boas: 'Europa League not a distraction'

Andre Villas-Boas has insisted that Tottenham Hotspur's run in the Europa League does not distract the team from the Premier League.

A late strike from Mousa Dembele ensured that Spurs progress to the next round of the competition, where they will face Italian side Inter Milan.

The Tottenham manager told reporters: "After Europa League games we've always been good in the Premier League. I think it puts us in a good position to face West Ham.

"I don't think it's a distraction, I think it's an inspiration and I hope it can be exactly that against West Ham.

"We don't have to fear any team. People have respect for us. If you're in a winning mood it's important in the league."

Tottenham face West Ham at Upton Park tomorrow evening.