We can be Europa Champions

ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS insists the Europa League is Tottenham’s audition for 

football’s top tier.

Spurs take on Lyon in a sizzling last-32 clash this week — and Villas-Boas reckons it is a 

match worthy of the Champions League.

His White Hart Lane side are currently in fourth and are chasing a spot in next year’s elite competition.

But for now Villas-Boas wants his side to prove they can mix it with the big boys — by winning the Europa League.

He said: “This could be a test of whether we’re good enough to play in the Champions League.

“I think we’ve been handed the most difficult draw of this knock-out phase.

“This is like a Champions League tie.

Europa League? No one likes it... we don't care!

Fotball

ANDRE VILLAS-BOAS insists he is bucking the trend and taking the Europa League deadly seriously

“Lyon represent a club with tremendous Champions League experience in recent years.

“It will be a good test for Tottenham. It’s always going to be a learning experience for us and I think it can serve that purpose towards the future, that’s for sure.”

It was a fairytale draw for keeper Hugo Lloris, who moved from the French club to Spurs in the summer.

But Villas-Boas says he will continue his policy of playing Brad Friedel in goal in the tournament.

He added: “Most likely Brad is going to be in goal.

“It’s a decision we’ve already taken. We know this tie represents a lot to Hugo on a personal level but, out of respect ad confidence to Brad, we will continue to apply the same principle we have in the past and rotate the goalkeepers.”