Steed revels in cup win

Malbranque: Delighted

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Steed Malbranque has expressed his delight following Tottenham's victory over Chelsea and set his sights on catching up to the top four clubs in England.

Spurs came from behind at Wembley to capture the Carling Cup and Malbranque has hailed the win as one of the greatest of his career.

"It is a great emotion, bigger than in 2001, when I won the French League Cup with Lyon," the midfielder said in L'Equipe.

"At that time I was a substitute, so I didn't really enjoy it, but this time, defeating Chelsea and being in the starting XI, that is really strong.

"Moreover, we played better and we got the best chances."

Malbranque feels Spurs have improved considerably under Juande Ramos and can now look forward to challenging for more silverware.

Ramos praise

Spurs have progressed to the last 16 of the Uefa Cup and Malbranque is confident that Ramos, who has won the competition for the last two years with Sevilla, could once again lead his side to glory.

Malbranque also believes Spurs can think about breaking into the UEFA Champions League spots in the next couple of seasons.

"The arrival of Juande Ramos at the club has had very positive results," he said.

"Our aim is to compete as soon as possible with the four big English clubs, but we have just reached our first aim. Tottenham will be in Europe next season.

"Now we will try to win the Uefa Cup. Our coach is a specialist of that competition."

Malbranque also hopes his performance against Chelsea acted as a reminder to France coach Raymond Domenech.

He added: "On a personal level, that trophy is also the proof I still exist, because I feel France has forgotten me."