AVB Holds French Star In High Esteem After Fulham Win

Andre Villas-Boas has praised the efforts of Hugo Lloris in Tottenham's win over Fulham with the keeper putting in a brilliant performance to help his side come from behind to claim an important win.

Spurs have been under the microscope in recent weeks after their 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Manchester City but the side look to have recovered and despite Fulham going up 1-0 in the second half, Villas-Boas' men were able to score twice in 10 minutes to turn the result around.

Dimitar Berbatov had his fair share of chances on goal but Lloris contunally denied the wantaway striker, and he eventually finished goalless as Tottenham took the full three points to move up to sixth place.

Villas-Boas admitted the win was a particularly important one for the north London club and the Portuguese tactician reserved special praise for Lloris who could be credited with keeping Tottenham in the game at times.

"It was very important for the team," he told reporters. "For both teams, a win would have been a boost of confidence and it fell our way. Two moments of inspiration solved the game.

"We have to build on this win and get on a good run of results to join the top teams competing for the Champions League spots.

"It was a great game by the two goalkeepers. [The win was] fantastic for [Lloris]. He needed a win like that for his confidence.

"To make such decisive saves and have this impact was important for him on a personal level.

"He fought hard to get his place in this team [last year]. He's a top, top goalkeeper who has great ambitions for himself and the team. He showed his qualities once again."

Tottenham will now look ahead to the weekend when they play Sunderland in another important game that is a must win for Villas-Boas against a side who pushed Chelsea all the way on Wednesday night.