Rafael da Silva made his first appearance for the first team on Saturday since he was taken off at half-time against Yeovil on the first weekend of January.

The Brazilian has spoken about his delight at being back in the team and hopes to keep his place, with Liverpool on the horizon.

It was very good for me and it was also very important for me, to come into the game and play for the first-team again. I just want to be involved now. Of course, it was good to play. Training has been fantastic as well. Now I just want to be involved with the team and if I get a chance, then I want to play well. This result is very good for our confidence ahead of the Liverpool game,” he admits. “It is very good to win a game against a team like Tottenham, playing some fantastic football with a high tempo and lots of energy. It has boosted our confidence. It is always tough to play there at Anfield, but I think it is very good to get this result before that game.