Holtby aware of West Ham challenge

Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby knows that breaking down West Ham will not be easy when the two sides meet on Sunday.

The hosts will be heavy favourites to defeat Sam Allardyce’s side at White Hart Lane as they bid to continue their impressive start to the Premier League season.

Andre Villas-Boas has guided his side to third, while West Ham are struggling in 17th, having won just one of their six league fixtures.

They have conceded just five goals, though – only four sides have shipped less – and Holtby is aware that Spurs will have to be at their best to breach the visitors’ defence.

“West Ham aren’t conceding many goals, they look strong and dangerous on the counter,” Holtby told Tottenham’s official website.

“We have to be ready for it, another derby, the atmosphere will be fantastic and I hope for the fans we can get three points again.”

The Germany international has been in impressive form for Tottenham this season and laid on an assist in the club’s 2-0 UEFA Europa League win over Anzhi Makhachkala on Thursday.