O'Hara impressed by Ramos

Midfielder believes Spurs can challenge big boys

Last updated: 24th July 2008

O'Hara impressed by Ramos

O'Hara: Full of praise for Ramos

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Jamie O'Hara has backed Juande Ramos to take Tottenham to the next level.

Ramos handed O'Hara his Spurs debut last season and the young midfielder has been impressed by the impact already made by the Spaniard during his short time at White Hart Lane.

The Spanish tactician led Spurs to Carling Cup glory in his debut campaign in North London last season and O'Hara says Ramos has given the Tottenham players the confidence to challenge the top sides in the Premier League.

"I think we now have all the ingredients to be a really top-class team," O'Hara told the club's official magazine. "Juande, Gus [Poyet] and Marcos Alvarez instil confidence in the players.

Confidence

"They have brought confidence and belief to the squad. In the big games last season, we showed that we could compete against the top sides in the Premiership. Now we have to take that to the next level."

O'Hara admits he dreams of one day captaining Tottenham after breaking into the first team under Ramos.

The England Under 21 international was rewarded for his breakthrough into the side last season by earning a new three-year deal at White Hart Lane and the talented midfielder is determined to continue his progress.

"Ideally, I'd like to play a lot of games and become a regular," added O'Hara. "I'd also like to take a few more risks and begin to stamp my authority on games.

"One day, I'd love to be captain of Tottenham. Whether that dream ever comes true, we'll just have to wait and see.

"Getting a new contract topped last season off for me. It showed me that the manager sees me as part of his plans and that I'm here for the long term."

Fantastic

O'Hara also revealed he is looking forward to playing with two of Tottenham's new signings - Luka Modric and Giovani Dos Santos - next season and he is not worried that they will add to the competition for places in the starting XI.

"They are fantastic players," noted O'Hara. "I watched Modric in Euro 2008 and I'm really looking forward to playing with him.

"Having players like that in the squad will make us a stronger team.

"There will be more competition for places, but that's vital if we're going to push on for a Champions League place this season."

To read the full interview with O'Hara, look out for the Hotspur magazine, out on Friday 25th July