Kranjcar: Tottenham mean business in Europe
Croatian midfielder Niko Kranjcar has claimed that Tottenham can make an impact in this year's Champions League despite being handed one of the toughest group draws of the competition.
In an interview for Tottenham's matchday programme, Kanjcar said that he has always believed in the London club's ability to compete at the top level.
"I said from the first day I arrived here that Tottenham is a club geared up to play Champions League football," said the Croatian midfielder, who joined Tottenham in September 2009.
"The squad we have here is unbelievable, we have very, very good players and it really is set up for us to prove ourselves now. We should be competing at this level and should now try to push on and become a regular side in the Champions League."
Up against tough teams
Tottenham secured a place in the group stages of Europe's finest footballing competition after beating BSC Young Boys in the final qualifying round.
On Friday, Tottenham were drawn alongside defending champions Inter Milan, German side Werder Bremen and FC Twente of Holland in Group A of this year's competition.
Inter are favourites to win the group, while Tottenham will have to stave off Bremen for the second place.
Bremen have entered the Champions League round of 16 twice since the 2004-2005 season, while Tottenham have not competed at the highest level in Europe since 1962.
Here to make an impact
But despite his club's relative lack of experience in European football, Kranjcar remains confident that his team will pose a serious threat in the group.
"We are not going into the group stages just to participate. Our goal is to progress from the group and we believe we have the quality to do that. No-one will enjoy playing against us.
"It's my first time at this stage as well, it's a great feeling and I can't wait to be involved in the big games coming up."
Tottenham begin their European campaign away to Bremen on 14 September.
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