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CSKA Moscow manager makes bold statement about Tottenham

Tottenham's Erik Lamela celebrates with team mates after scoring their second goal (REUTERS)
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The Russian boss was discussing Tottenham in the build up to tonights Champions League group stage tie.

Tottenham's Jan Vertonghen and Harry Kane celebrate after West Brom's Craig Dawson (not pictured) scores an own goal and Tottenham's firstTottenham lost their opening Champions League game

CSKA Moscow manager Leonid Slutsky was talking to the press ahead of his teams tough home tie with Tottenham this evening.

Slutsky spoke to the media on issues such as the strength of the Tottenham team, their Premier League campaign last season and the fears over crowd trouble and potential violence.

“Tottenham are one of the best sides in England, which automatically makes them one of the best in the world,” the 45-year-old told reporters.

CSKA Moscow coach Leonid Viktorovich Slutsky during the press conferenceCSKA Moscow manager Leonid Slutsky during yesterday’s press conference

The former goalkeeper picked out Son Heung-min, Vincent Janssen, Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela as examples of “pretty dangerous” players within the Tottenham ranks.

“Last year, Spurs had an amazing team and tried to win the title. This season, they play a little different because many teams sit back against them.”

Slutsky will be a familiar face to many in England, as he took charge of the Russian national team who were in England’s group at Euro 2016, but he left his position when the country finished bottom of group B.

The three-time title winning manager also responded to questions regarding violence between supporters, claiming Tottenham fans “will enjoy a high level of hospitality” adding “I’m confident they’re in no danger. They have no reasons for fears.”

Tottenham manager Mauricio PochettinoTottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino also spoke to the media ahead of the hugely important Champions League tie, but there were less niceties from the Argentine.

Pochettino stated clearly that Spurs “must win tomorrow,” adding, “it is very important to get the three points, we know that it will be a very tough game.”

The former Southampton manager added that the game was a good opportunity for his team to right the wrong’s of their performance and result against Monaco, stating that a lack of Champions League experience is no excuse for Tottenham.

Football Soccer - Bayer 04 Leverkusen v CSKA Moscow - Champions LeagueWill Tottenham win in Russia tonight?