An injury crisis stripped the club of William Gallas, Michael Dawson, Ledley King and Vedran Corluka leaving us to field what was practically our only available back four yesterday, but two-goal Rafael van der Vaart was quick to praise our defence's contribution.

"When you score you're always in the headlines, but I think the defenders were amazing today.

Is this week's man of the match a formality or does someone other than Rafael van der Vaart deserve the champagne after his double strike in yesterday's 2-1 win at Blackburn?

The Dutchman is in a rich vein of striking form with five golas in his last four games and was singled out for praise by manager Harry Redknapp after the match.

It's reported that Sandro and Aaron Lennon suffered no ill-effects after appearing in last night's 1-0 win over Rubin Kazan and both could make a start for Tottenham in Sunday's clash at Blackburn Rovers.

The injury problems in defence mean that the back four picks itself with Walker, BAE, Kaboul and Bassong likely to line up ahead of Brad Friedel in goal.

Last night's return to winning ways at Ewood Park was welcomed by all concerned at Tottenham.

Harry Redknapp played two main strikers for the first time anyone could remember, with Rafael van der Vaart dropping back into midfield. After 3 minutes the change paid off with Peter Crouch heading home, what proved to be the winner.

As widely predicted Johnathan Woodgate has been included in the squad for the trip to Blackburn. With so many injuries and suspensions it seemed inevitable that the player would be called up and according to the manager he may even start.

Harry said: "He'll be involved in some way but I've got a mind to throw him in at the deep end.