Gomes on the up

Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes insists he is getting back to his best after overcoming a hip injury that contributed to his high-profile blunders.

The 27-year-old is reluctant to make excuses for his errors since arriving from PSV Eindhoven for £7.8million in the summer - but admits his confidence was dented by his fitness problems.

"My injury is now better," Gomes said. "That was a big problem but it is much better now. It gives you more confidence as a goalkeeper because when every ball came I was thinking whether I should go or stay."

He added: "The communication is better and I understand the defenders."

Against NEC in the 1-0 UEFA Cup win that virtually put Spurs through to the knockout stages of the competition, Gomes saved smartly at a crucial period of the game when his side were defending their lead.

After his clean sheet, Gomes had a smile back on his face.

"I like to smile," he said. "I am happy about the last two games. Clean sheets are very important for goalkeepers.

"It's not an excuse but the team did not start well this season and that is not good for the goalkeeper or for anyone.

"For goalkeepers it is a more difficult situation. I know I'm a good goalkeeper. The time now is very important for me and the people who have helped me so much are very important."