Andre Villas-Boas eyes Chelsea win as Tottenham close in on top four

Andre Villas-Boas has his sights firmly set on masterminding a Tottenham victory at Chelsea next week as Spurs look to cement their place in the top four.

The north Londoners moved above Arsenal into fourth place in the table thanks to a 1-0 win over Southampton at White Hart Lane to leave them within touching distance of Champions League qualification.

And the Portuguese coach needs no reminding about the significance of Wednesday’s trip to Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea currently in third place.

“We’re going to give it a try [at Chelsea],” said Villas-Boas, who spent eight months in charge of the Blues last season before being sacked.

“If we win our games we are there, so we have to push to get this result and hopefully we can achieve it.”

Gareth Bale was once again Spurs’ hero as the Welshman netted his 20th Premier League goal of the season in the 86th minute against the Saints.

And the 23-year-old PFA player of the year was delighted to help his side continue their push for a top-four finish.

“I saw the space open up and got a good strike away – it is a massive three points and keeps our Champions League hopes alive,” said Bale.

“Southampton played very well. The first half we didn’t play well, the second half we were more confident and we got that decisive goal.”

Meanwhile, Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino was full of praise for Bale after his late winner.

“When a team has a player of those characteristics, they can light up those moments, there is nothing you can do against that,” said the Southampton manager.”