Jan Vertonghen expects Tottenham Hotspur battle

Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen has admitted that he is being realistic regarding his chances of making the first team.

The Belgium international, who completed a move to Spurs from Ajax earlier this month, will have to contend with the likes of Michael Dawson, William Gallas and Younes Kaboul in defence.

"It will be difficult for me to break into the team without a doubt," the Daily Star quotes Vertonghen as saying.

"I knew before I came that there would be a lot of competition. But I am not afraid of competition. It's a big club and at every big club there is a lot of competition."

Meanwhile, Spurs winger Gareth Bale has refused to forgive Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam for tackling him during a pre-season friendly at the weekend.