Tottenham boss Villas-Boas: I am counting on Van der Vaart

André Villas-Boas says he is “absolutely counting” on Rafael van der Vaart staying at Tottenham as the Portuguese coach readies his Spurs squad for the new season.

The Dutch midfielder has been linked with a move away from White Hart Lane in recent weeks, with his former club Hamburg reportedly interested in re-signing the 29-year-old.

But new Spurs boss Villas-Boas insists he is expecting the Netherlands international to stay in north London and stressed that his situation differs from that of Luka Modrić, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid this week.

“With Van der Vaart, at the moment I am absolutely counting on him,” said Villas-Boas.

“It is a totally different situation from Luka [Modric], who has been chased by different clubs in the past two seasons and is continuing to drag interest.

“We have to make sure the club’s interests are met and it is up to the chairman to decide that.”

Villas-Boas, who was announced as Harry Redknapp’s successor earlier this month, is hoping to bring an attractive style of play to White Hart Lane.

“Tottenham are linked with great football in the past,” he continued. “It is something they have always valued highly. There is a wonderful history of attractive football, and Bill Nicholson left these messages of football well played and doing things in style, which is what I want to achieve as well.

“The structures that surround Tottenham are extremely good. There are competent people in and around the football club. The club is driven towards success, and everybody knows they must play a part in achieving that success.”

Open a bet365 account with £10 or more and you'll get a free bet of up to £200 on us. Click here for more information.

Like The Sport Review on Facebook:

Read more on: André Villas-Boas, Harry Redknapp, Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur.