Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen has insisted that he is a better player when he plays in central defence.

The Belgian defender has been deputising at left-back in the absence of the injured Benoit Assou-Ekotto but with the Cameroonian now close to full fitness, Vertonghen is eager to revert back to his usual position.

Vertonghen told reporters: "For the team, it is best that I play as a centre-back. I like to bring the ball out. When teams drop in and you need to move the game quickly, that is one of my qualities as well.

"The manager knows I prefer centre-back but that is enough for me. He respects me but tells me whenever I need to play left back. I want to help the team."

Vertonghen signed for Spurs from Ajax during the summer.