Tottenham Hotspur can finish in the top four, insists Gallas

William Gallas believes Tottenham Hotspur are well-equipped to challenge for honours and secure Champions League qualification this season.

Gallas, 34, admits this season’s Premier League spotlight has been on Manchester City’s improvement – but the French defender feels Spurs are in a good position to build on their impressive start.

“The squad is stronger this year,” said Gallas. “We believe we can finish in the top four and maybe win something.

“You never know in football. Everyone is talking about [league leaders] Manchester City. They are doing well, but I think we have to believe in ourselves and try to win every game and at the end of the season we will see.”

The former Chelsea centre-half reserved particular praise for Scott Parker, who has slotted seamlessly into the Londoners’ midfield following his move from West Ham United in August.

“I knew what he could do from my time with him at Chelsea,” Gallas said. “He is doing a good job for us. He sits in front of the two centre-backs and he runs everywhere.

“His quality is really good. He can make crucial passes and I think he is one of the best midfielders in England.”

Spurs are unbeaten in eight league games – and Gallas wants his team-mates to remain focused despite the absence of boss Harry Redknapp, who will be at home recovering from heart surgery for their clash at Fulham on Sunday.

“We have to win because he is not well at the moment,” the Spurs defender said. “The manager is a good guy so I think we have to do a good job on Sunday for him. We have to do it for the squad and the fans too.”