Tottenham Defender Admits Levy's Splurge This Summer Was Surreal

Danny Rose has revealed he was a little shocked to see how much money Tottenham spent this summer, with the left-back insisting it has given the squad a lift as they see how much faith Daniel Levy has in them to finish in the top four.

Rose, who returned from a loan spell with Sunderland this summer to rejoin Spurs in their preparations for the 2013-14 campaign, has watched with the rest of the side as Andre Villas-Boas, Franco Baldini and Levy brought in seven players to eventually offset the departure of Gareth Bale.

The England Under-21 international, who was linked with a move away from White Hart Lane, says the amount of investment that has gone into the squad this summer shows just how serious Levy is about breaking into the top four, even after losing Gareth Bale.

He told the Evening Standard: "I've been here six years now and it's a little bit surreal to see Spurs spend that sort of money.

"But it's good that the chairman sees we're not far from breaking into the top four. We just need to push on to that next level and he is allowing the manager to build his squad. We're looking to push on now after the international break."

The sale of Bale became more of a certainty for Tottenham as deadline day edged closer, with the north London side appearing to pre-empt the departure of their star player by spending heavily on replacements.

Asked if Tottenham could become a better side without Bale, Rose replied: "I think so. There have been games, though, where Gareth would have unlocked the door a lot earlier, even the ones we've won against Crystal Palace and Swansea.

"Even against Arsenal he would have enjoyed being out there, but I don't think anyone can hold a grudge against him leaving. I wish him all the best and I hope he enjoys the occasion in Madrid."

Tottenham's loss to Arsenal at the weekend will leave Villas-Boas with much work to do in preparation for their return to action against Norwich after the international break.