Tottenham to prioritise Premier League survival over Champions League progress, says Igor Tudor

Tottenham Hotspur will prioritize winning Premier League survival over progress in the Champions League, interim manager Igor Tudor has said.

Spurs’ poor home form saw Thomas Frank sacked last month and three defeats in Tudor’s first three games have left them one point above the relegation zone.

They have fared much better in Europe, earning automatic qualification for the last 16 of the Champions League and an away first leg against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

But securing a 49th successive season in England’s top flight is Tudor’s priority.

“Every match is important,” the Croatian said at a press conference in Madrid on Monday.

“[A] A completely different mentality element can be used in this type of game, so maybe this can help us see what problems we have and get on the right track. But always focus on us, growing as a team, doing things better.

“We have to do the best we can in terms of our growth,” Tudor added. “Our first target is the Premier League, this is something that needs to be said publicly. This is a normal thing.

“[The Champions League] “It’s an extra thing, but it doesn’t mean we don’t want to pass and move on to the next round.”

Defenders Djed Spence and Cristian Romero are available again, with captain Romero returning from suspension and making his debut under Tudor.

After using Richarlison on the bench in his first three matches, Tudor said the Brazilian striker would start on Tuesday.

“The players are coming back, that’s important,” Tudor said. “In all three games we missed players in their positions and players who usually play.

“It’s a good game to play tomorrow, it’s a completely different competition to the Premier League. We’ve got good experience from this season and past games, so let’s see what happens tomorrow.”