Competition excites Parker

Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker admits he thrives off having to fight for his place in the starting XI while admitting he is enjoying the challenge of attempting to establish himself at his new club.

Parker made to White Hart Lane from Upton Park on transfer deadline day and his performances have already seen him emerge as a favourite with the Spurs faithful.

However, the former West Ham United captain understands he can't let his standards slip with the competition for starting spots in the centre of the park fierce.

The re-emergence of Sandro following knee surgery and with Tom Huddlestone still to return from injury, the 30-year-old knows he has to maintain his high standards to keep his starting spot.

"I knew when I signed for Spurs that it would be difficult and it is. I will have to work hard and prove myself to stay in the team," Parker said in the Daily Star Sunday.

"You always know when you come to a big club that there will be real competition for places and I think that's healthy.

"But I'm up for the challenge and it can only be good for the squad to have such good competition. We're all pushing each other.

"Things have gone really well for me over the last few years. My main target is to keep fit, try to stay in the side and help as much as I can."