Tottemham Can Still Win UEFA Cup Place, says Aaron Lennon

Sleepless Aaron Lennon suffered flashbacks about Ben Foster’s save at Wembley – but Spurs have woken up to a chance of sneaking back into Europe.

The lightning winger thought he was going to be Tottenham’s Carling Cup Final king until he was thwarted by Manchester United goalkeeper Foster’s stunning reflexes.

While Foster went on to become United’s penalty shoot-out hero, Lennon took out his frustration on Middlesbrough with a dazzling performance in front of England coach Fabio Capello at White Hart Lane on Wednesday night.

Lennon scored twice in Spurs’ 4-0 romp, which not only lifted them to within three wins of safety but, unbelievably, gave them hope of finishing seventh and squeezing into the UEFA Cup again.

An England recall and a surprise return to Europe would be a stunning double consolation for Lennon after Foster denied him a place among Tottenham’s Wembley legends. Still only 21, he said: “I thought I’d caught it well, but Ben is a great keeper – I’ve played with him in a few England squads and he made a fine save and turned in a great performance.

“I didn’t sleep too well thinking about it, but I didn’t have much time to dwell

on it because we had two important games this week.

“We know we shouldn’t be in this position with the players we have, and it’s just a pity the way we started this season – it really killed us.

“But when we play the way we did against Boro, it makes you wonder if we can kick on. After the game someone said we were eight points off seventh place and there are still 10

games to go.

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“It would be unbelievable if we could finish seventh and get a UEFA Cup spot, but the main thing is to stay in the Premier League.

“On a personal level, I’m the fittest I’ve ever been and I’m probably playing the best football of my career. The team is starting to play well now and I think that’s helping me as well.

“Of course I would love another chance with England. I’ve missed it but, like I said, it’s about keeping Spurs in the Prem right now.”

Another catalyst for Spurs’ surge towards safety has been the return of Robbie Keane. Irish ace Keane set up both of Lennon’s goals and the winger added: “It’s as if Robbie has never been away.

“He reads the game so well, he’s always been good for me and he’s brilliant for the club, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. He’s a legend here, and he’s given everyone a boost.”

Keane paid tribute to Lennon ahead of his date tomorrow with Sunderland’s George McCartney. It could be the most fascinating duel between a Lennon and a McCartney since the Beatles disbanded, and Keane said: “Aaron’s been brilliant. I’ve always been an admirer of his style, from a long time ago.

“He was terrific against Man United, and I don’t think Patrice Evra has ever had a test like that.

“Since I got back to Tottenham, I’ve seen a more mature player.

“I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be in the England squad again – he should be in there anyway as you haven’t another player like him.

“There are no other wingers who can beat people with his pace and change a game. Does anyone beat him in sprints in training? What do you think?’’

( Mike Walters / Mirror )