Harry Winks is determined to prove he can "hold his own" in the heart of Tottenham's midfield this season, and believes he will be helped by new signing Victor Wanyama.
The pair started Tottenham's 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in Melbourne this morning, with both men producing encouraging performances for Mauricio Pochettino's side.
Wanyama's physical power complemented the crisp passing of Winks and Spurs surrendered a degree of control in midfield when the Kenya international was withdrawn at half time.
Winks was given an extended run out and played 75 minutes of the defeat before being substituted and appears to have bulked up over the summer months.
Tottenham's key performers vs Atletico Madrid
The 20-year-old made two first-team appearances in the Europa League last season and relished the fresh chance to prove his worth next to Wanyama, whom he views an an elder sibling.
"I thought we played very well. I really enjoyed it and I want to prove that I can hold my own," he told the club's official website.
"Victor Wanyama is a great guy - he really helps me. It's like having a big brother alongside me in midfield."
Competition for places in Tottenham's midfield is set to be fierce next season with Mousa Dembele, Eric Dier, Ryan Mason and Tom Carroll also vying for one of two positions.
Pochettino insisted that he was pleased with Tottenham's International Champions Cup campaign, despite enduring two defeats, and Heung min-Son was quick to echo his manager's sentiments.
"We've enjoyed our time here. We were unlucky today - we played well.
Tottenham's key performers vs Atletico Madrid
"We are a very strong team. You can see that. With a bit more luck we might have won both our matches here," said the South Korea international.
Tottenham face Inter Milan in their final pre-season friendly on August 5 before kicking off their Premier League campaign against Everton at Goodison Park on August 13.
