Jol: We must play away

Tottenham boss Martin Jol believes qualifying for Europe this season could be down to which teams perform away from home.

Spurs' consistency last season took them to the brink of the Champions League but they are yet to win away in the Premiership in the current campaign and face a tricky test at Blackburn on Sunday.

"Our home record will be okay, so it's only about away games," the Dutchman said. "If you win seven away games you are in the top four or five, we can do that but we need to look at a few details."

Jol has identified the need to toughen up on the road to solve their problem, although there have been encouraging performances in the UEFA Cup.

"It's not only about our mentality, it's about physical toughness as well," he added.

"If you have five big strong guys, it's not a problem. If you have two or three then other people have to take responsibility as well."

Blackburn have been trying to shake off their reputation for being physical while Spurs have a history of flowing football, but Jol does not mind seeing his side fight their way to victory.

A lack of physical power was exposed at Reading last week when defensive lapses allowed the Premiership newcomers to end Spurs' 10-match unbeaten run.

Jol, whose side's only away Premiership goals have come through Juan Pablo Angel putting through his own net and a Robbie Keane penalty, said: "We've got football players.

"We don't buy Vinnie Jones-style players, so if they all show they can be a tough physical player then there is no problem. We showed that in our 10 games."