Mind the gap, urges AVB

Andre Villas-Boas has urged Tottenham to seize the initiative and open a gap on their rivals so that they do not slip away and miss out on Champions League football again.

Tottenham travel to Sunderland today looking to cement their place in the top four after an inconsistent first half of the season under their Portuguese manager.

Despite being fourth in the table, the Londoners have squandered nine points by conceding late goals in a season characterised by nervy home displays.