Hugo Lloris says Tottenham are ready to step up title fight

Posted Wednesday, August 29, 2018 by Skysports.com

Hugo Lloris says Tottenham are ready to step up title fight
Hugo Lloris admits it was a tough week in the build-up to Tottenham's win at Old Trafford

Hugo Lloris was delighted to help Tottenham to a memorable win over Manchester United at Old Trafford as the goalkeeper put his off-field "mistake" to one side.

Preparations for Monday's match were disrupted as France's World Cup-winning captain was charged with drink driving on Friday.

Lloris was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on September 11 after an incident that led to questions around whether Mauricio Pochettino would drop the goalkeeper or take the armband off him.

Instead, the 31-year-old led the side out and helped keep United at bay as Spurs ran out 3-0 victors to maintain their 100 per cent start to the season.

"There are always some key moments in the season and I think this game came at the perfect time," Lloris said.

"It was a tough week, especially because of my mistake, but I think the team stayed strong.

"We showed again the togetherness in Tottenham and we made a great, great game against Man U.

"It is always a big challenge to come to Old Trafford to face Man U and this time we got the result that we wanted.

"It was a great moment to share with the fans after the game to thank them for their support.

"It's true the last few years the club hasn't won a lot, but it is a special place and even more with the new stadium, which is coming soon.

"We have a lot of talented players, a young team, a brilliant manager, one of the best in the world, with his staff.

Hugo Lloris says Tottenham are ready to step up title fight
Lucas Moura celebrates his first goal at Old Trafford

"There is everything there to enjoy football and this is what we are going to try again this season. We are going to try to step up again all together.

"We know the Premier League is a big challenge because there are a lot of fantastic teams.

"It is very exciting to face that type of team and [against United on Monday] we had a great answer as a team together."

Few expected such an impressive start given perennial slow starters Tottenham's striking lack of summer signings.

While the inability to strengthen may hinder them down the line, it appears to be working in the short term as confident players such as two-goal hero Lucas Moura are grabbing their chance to shine.

"The good thing is that we know each other so well," Lloris said. "Lucas is showing his quality and his skills. It was not easy for him last season because he came in the middle of the season, the team was already settled but he has shown how strong he is in his head.

"He had the possibility to play in pre-season and show his skills and talent and in the last two games he has been decisive.

"That is good because we need all our players at their best to give the manager a lot of options. And then most important is the spirit in the squad - but the spirit has always been fantastic."