Bond: Spurs have what it takes

Tottenham assistant Kevin Bond is confident his side can progress to the Europa League’s knockout stages despite a 1-0 loss to Rubin Kazan.

A free-kick from Bibras Natcho was the difference as Russian hosts Rubin Kazan secured three points, though the scoreline could have been more comprehensive if not for the heroics of goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini.

After a serious motorbike accident in November 2009, the Italian has come back stronger than ever.

“Carlo pulled off one save in particular in the first half and a couple of other excellent saves for us tonight and that is what we knew he was capable of,” Bond said.

The Spurs number two was in charge for the match in Kazan following manager Harry Redknapp’s heart surgery and he made sure he was not influenced by him at all.

“I left my phone in the changing room and will give him a call on the way home,” Bond said.

“I spoke to him earlier in the day and he was in fine form. He is threatening to come in tomorrow – perhaps a bit of extra training for the lads.”

Rubin Kazan are a tough prospect at home in Europe, and defeated Champions League winners Barcelona in the group stages of the 2009/10 Champions League.

The result ensured Tottenham slip to third in Europa League Group A, but are just one point from leaders POAK of Greece.

“We were under no illusion how good a side they were,” he said.

“They are a very good side with a lot of good players and in the end just one goal made the difference. It is going to be tight right until the end, but with the games we have got left, it is still in our hands to qualify and we feel confident we will do.”