ALAN Hutton this week backed Juande Ramos to turn Tottenham into Champions League contenders next season. Since winning the Carling Cup in February, Spurs have had little to play for and have only managed one win in their last six games. The Lilywhites we

ALAN Hutton this week backed Juande Ramos to turn Tottenham into Champions League contenders next season.

Since winning the Carling Cup in February, Spurs have had little to play for and have only managed one win in their last six games.

The Lilywhites were held to a disappointing 1-1 Premier League draw by Middlesbrough at the Lane on Saturday after taking the lead - they have now dropped 31 points from winning positions this season.

However, Hutton, a £9million signing from Rangers in January, insists Tottenham can force their way into the top four next term.

"I don't see why not," Hutton told Wood&Vale Sport. "We've definitely got the players. I'm sure the manager will be strengthening the squad during the summer, so hopefully we can challenge in the future.

"I wanted to come down here and progress as a player and, I think I have done that. I have fitted into the squad quite well and quickly. The team likes to play good, attacking football and that's what I enjoy. Hopefully, I and the team can improve next season."

Hutton also feels the players must use the remaining four league games to impress Ramos for the new season, starting at Wigan tomorrow.

"Personally, I would say that is the main objective from now until the end of the season.

"We need to continue to show him what we can do. I imagine he will have transfer targets during the summer. All the boys who are playing will have to prove they can keep their places for next season."

The Scottish international, who is in line to pick up a Scottish championship medal if Rangers win the SPL title, admitted it can be tough with little to play for in the remaining games.

"We're in the middle of the table, not fighting for the top places or in any danger of going down," said Hutton. "It is hard but we are professionals and we need to be motivated for each game."

l Meanwhile, Robbie Keane feels that skipper Ledley King made the correct decision to rule himself out of the run-in to ensure he is fully fit for next season.

"The time is right for Ledley to take a step back to try to make sure he is leading us out on a regular basis next season," said stand-in skipper Keane.

pat.mooney@hamhigh.co.uk