Tottenham: Igor Tudor explains why he has NOT enjoyed his first days as Spurs manager | OneFootball

New manager arrived on Monday

Tudor was speaking on Friday afternoon at his first press conference, having been appointed late last week as Spurs interim head coach until the end of the season, following the sacking of Thomas Frank.

The Croatian’s first match in charge is Sunday’s north London Derby against Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Spurs sit in 16th position in the table ahead of the match, five points off the bottom three, but Tudor says it is “not important” whether Spurs should be considered part of a relegation fight and instead insists his team can make life difficult for a Gunners side suffering a wobble in form.

Asked whether he has enjoyed his first few days at Tottenham, the straight-talking former Lazio and Juventus manager said: “No, I didn't enjoy it. Because I'm here not to enjoy. I'm here to work.

“So, enjoying is just the first moment after there's work to do, you know. [It is] nice. Privileged to be here at this fantastic club.”

Tudor has managed in five countries across Europe, but Spurs marks his first job in England. The former Croatia international does not believe his lack of Premier League experience should be held against him.

“I don't believe,” he said. “Football is everywhere, 11 against 11. There are referees, there is everything.

“You will know much better with the months [ahead], but in the end it's always about the pitch there, about the relationship, about what you need to do there.

“I believe that this experience in Italy can give me something extra.”

He said of facing Arsenal: “We respect them, but we play at home. So let's see what will happen. You need to have courage, confidence.

“They have good players, [but] let's see what will happen. We're humble, but brave and intelligent.”