Source: SKY_Sports
Spurs duo to get chance
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is prepared to give Giovani dos Santos and David Bentley the chance to impress against Preston in the Carling Cup.
The duo have struggled to convince their manager that they warrant a place at White Hart Lane and there was speculation in the summer that both would leave the club.
Permanent departures did not materialise and Redknapp has seen improvements, particularly in Giovani after meeting with the Mexico international's parents.
"He has had a great season with Mexico so this is a big test for him," said the Spurs manager. "The penny has dropped, about applying himself and adapting himself.
"His dad (Zizinho) was a top player, I've spoken to his mum and dad, they came to see me. He's a smashing kid but found it hard to get into training on time.
"He has realised he can't do that here, he has toed the line and got fitter and that's the key.
"He let himself down last year, he wasn't in good shape, he didn't look after himself.
"Now he's fitter, leaner and has great ability. He's only a kid and if he develops, he can be a top player."
Bentley will also be given an opportunity to shine in the third-round tie at Deepdale after falling behind Aaron Lennon in the pecking order.
"It's not easy for him I suppose, he doesn't see a lot of light at the end of the tunnel, he sees Lennon playing well," Redknapp said.
"All he can do is perform when he's in the team, work hard and show a good attitude and then his chance will come."
Redknapp is also keen for his players to replicate the attitude of Manchester United veteran Gary Neville after the defender's celebrations against Manchester City, which have been criticised
by some.
He said: "You look at Gary Neville, a man who has won everything there is to win - championship after championship after championship.
"The excitement he showed at his team winning and he was only a sub.
"He wasn't sitting on the bench with his arms folded. He was jumping higher than Fergie (Sir Alex Ferguson) when they scored and that's why they are where they are. That is why they succeed."
