Tottenham handed huge boost in race for top four with the return of star midfielder

Tottenham are picking momentum at the right time while their win against West Ham has set up a potential titanic clash against north London rivals Arsenals for the Champions League spot.

An own goal from Kurt Zouma and two from South Korean forward Son Heung-min was enough to secure all three points for the LillyWhites against the Hammers and that has propelled them to fifth on the league table.

Spurs are looking consistent and sharp and players are beginning to understand the tactical requirement of their Italian manager.

The North London side have been boosted by the form of January signings Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur who have lifted the performance levels, brought new energy and making up for injured players.

But there is more good news on the way for Spurs fans with influential midfielder Oliver Skipp, set to return for the game against Newcastle after having been injured for the most of the year and played just two two league games since January.

His return will add bodies and generate healthy competition between the trio of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur.

Antonio Conte confirmed he was looking forward to having the English midfielder back after the international break with Skipp showing signs of healing after months out.

Conte said: “About Skippy, I hope to have him after the international break. His pain is getting better and better.

“About Ryan, we’re waiting four weeks to have another scan and then if everything is okay he’ll restart training sessions with us.”

Tottenham are currently just three points behind fourth placed Arsenal with both sides set to still face each other and the Gunners having a game in hand.

With nine games to end the season, there is still plenty to play for and both Spurs and the Gunners are not distracted by continental and domestic cup competition.

Securing that important Champions League spot will be seen as a massive step in the right direction for both clubs.