Spurs to see familiar faces on American tour

22 March 2012 17:46

Tottenham will face their former star Robbie Keane and old rival Thierry Henry when they prepare for the 2012-13 Premier League campaign with a pre-season tour to America.

The north Londoners will come up against ex-Tottenham striker Keane and former Manchester United midfielder David Beckham when they take on LA Galaxy at the Home Depot Center on July 24.

It will be Keane's first appearance against Tottenham since leaving White Hart Lane to move to the Galaxy in 2011, while Beckham will be reunited with many of the players he met during a brief spell training with Tottenham during the MLS off-season last year.

Spurs will be faced with a familiar rival when they meet Henry's New York Red Bulls in the inaugural New York Invitational Cup at the Red Bull Arena on July 31.

Arsenal legend Henry often tormented Spurs during his time with the Gunners, scoring numerous goals against his club's bitter rivals.

Tottenham could be under new management by the time they head to America if current boss Harry Redknapp is lured away by the chance to coach England.

But Redknapp, who took Spurs to the States in 2010, believes the tour provides ideal preparation for whoever is in charge.

"The facilities will be first class and the opposition will provide a great test for the squad," he said.

"We know how good the MLS sides are from two summers ago when we faced San Jose Earthquakes and New York Red Bulls.

"We can expect another tough encounter when we face the Red Bulls again this time.

"Playing the winners of the MLS Cup in LA Galaxy will provide a real challenge too.

"Any team that includes proven international performers like Robbie Keane, Landon Donovan and David Beckham are sure to be top drawer."

Source: AFP