Tottenham can challenge for the title

The Middlesbrough manager won the Champions League with Real Madrid three times as a player so knows all about success and what it takes. At his pre-game press conference Aitor Karanka said he thought Tottenham would be challenging for the title again and that losing Harry Kane isn't a great blow.

"We got to know each other on that course and a couple of years ago Tottenham were helpful in loaning us some players so we have a good relationship

"He's a good coach and a good friend, but that friendship has to go on hold as soon as the first whistle goes. He's done a really good job as a coach going right back to his time at Espanyol in Spain. 

“He was close to winning the title with Spurs last season and I think they can challenge again this time.”

Karanga and Pochettino took their coaching badges together and of course playing in LaLiga at the same time and he felt that while Middlesbrough have been outplayed yet they can't afford to drop their concentration levels or they could concede three goals in 10 minutes at this level.

"There's not been a game so far this season where we've been outclassed, it's just a case of ironing out the mistakes that have proved costly so far. 

"In the Championship you could drop your level for 10-15 minutes without much damage, but if you do that in the Premier League you'll concede three goals."

---