Jol looking for home comforts against Middlesbrough

Tottenham manager Martin Jol insists home advantage will be vital in the Carling Cup tie against Middlesbrough on Wednesday.

He told the club website: "It was not the easiest of draws for us, but we are at home and that is what you want.

"For us it is important, we want to get into the next round with a win at the Lane in front of our supporters.

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"We saw them play against their North East rivals Sunderland and I felt they did well. Julio Arca suffered an injury and Mido looks like he is going to be struggling to make it because of a hamstring problem.

"Middlesbrough have got a good team and have a tremendous track record in developing young players, but they also have considerable experience in the side.

"If you look at Stewart Downing on the left, he will chip in with ten or more assists, while Jonathan Woodgate is a great leader at the back, with George Boateng providing the experience in the middle.

"We have got home advantage, but that doesn't mean anything if you don't play well and create chances. We have conceded seven or eight easy goals this year and if we can cut that sort of thing out we will do well.

"We've got a few options when it comes to the starting line-up, Aaron Lennon is fine and fit for selection, along with Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale. We will make some changes, but we will always field a strong team."