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Kevin Kilbane makes a prediction about Spurs, suggests Vincent Janssen could be an issue

Kevin Kilbane during his time at Hull City (Reuters)
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Kevin Kilbane is backing Tottenham for a top four finish this season.

Kevin Kilbane during his time at Hull CityKevin Kilbane during his time at Hull City

Pundit Kevin Kilbane has told BBC Sport’s Match of the Day 2 Extra that he thinks Tottenham will finish in the top four this season – but thinks Vincent Janssen could be a problem.

Tottenham have made unbeaten start to the new Premier League season, picking up four wins and two draws in an impressive opening to the campaign.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino celebrates at full timeTottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino celebrates

This weekend, Spurs face their toughest task yet in a top of the table clash, as Mauricio Pochettino’s second-placed side host league leaders Manchester City at White Hart Lane.

Spurs will be hoping to keep their momentum going after beating CSKA Moscow 1-0 in the Champions League in midweek, and they already have the look of a team ready to challenge for the title again.

Tottenham's Son Heung-min celebrates scoring their second goal with team matesTottenham’s Son Heung-min celebrates scoring their second goal with team mates

Having collapsed at the end of last season, many were concerned about Tottenham heading into this season, but they’ve made a better start than last season – and have now received praise from pundit Kevin Kilbane.

Kilbane told BBC Sport’s Match of the Day 2 Extra that he thought Spurs were sluggish on the opening day of the season against Everton, but have now shown great intensity in their play – and he’s confidently predicting that Tottenham will finish in the top four of the Premier League this season.

Tottenham's Vincent JanssenTottenham’s Vincent Janssen

The former Sunderland and Everton star did suggest a problem though, stating that Tottenham must get Harry Kane fit, as summer signing Vincent Janssen so far hasn’t looked like being able to replicate his goalscoring feats, and he could be an issue going forward.

“I saw them against Everton on the first day of the season, and I actually thought they were quite sluggish and a little bit slow of the mark, considering the intensity that they’re now showing,” said Kilbane. “I think it’s just taken them a few weeks to get going. I always felt that they were going to kick on from last season – not necessarily going to win the league, but I think Tottenham will finish in the top four this year.”

“It’s just about…can they get and keep Kane fit? Can they get Janssen scoring goals? He hasn’t necessarily looked like that sort of player that’s going to replace Kane – that might be their issue going forward,” he added.

Do you think Tottenham will finish in the top four this season?