Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Paulinho has revealed that all friendships will be pushed aside for Saturday’s game against Chelsea at White Hart Lane.
The Brazilian is set to come up against his counterparts, David Luiz, Ramires and Oscar, all who are usual starters for The Blues, but the new-Spurs man is adamant that they will not be his friends for 90-minutes, come kick-off.
‘There is a level of affection there, a friendship between us all,’ Paulinho told the Telegraph.
‘But when we step onto the field of play we are there to defend ourselves and defend our team so I will be there fighting for Tottenham Hotspur. It’s a big match here in London, and in Brazil, where many people will watch, and it’s important for us, as a stepping stone also to win more games.
Chelsea will be Spurs’ second-tough opponents of the season and after losing the first one to Arsenal, Paulinho is desperate to get a big-win under the club’s belt.
‘We faced Arsenal and did not get the result we wanted [a 1-0 defeat]. But we are going down the right path so it’s great to have this opportunity to play against Chelsea in order to prove our level. Within the club we know our ability and this will start with this match against Chelsea.’ said the 25-year-old.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
