Premier League: Tottenham v Reading match preview

A look ahead to this week's Premier League fixture at White Hart Lane

Jermain Defoe (GETTY IMAGES)

Back in September, a visit to newly-promoted Reading provided manager André Villas-Boas with his first win as Tottenham manager after four games: a comfortable 3-1 victory, inspired by two Jermain Defoe goals.

His side now seem comfortable in the chase for a top-four finish, with six wins out of their last seven league games, although they will be without Gareth Bale in this return fixture against the Royals. The Welshman is suspended after picking up five yellow cards this season; four of them for simulation.

Saturday's narrow victory over West Ham saw Brian McDermott's team, still languishing in the relegation zone, secure only their second Premier League win of the season. Winning at White Hart Lane on New Years' Day would surely provide another vital boost to their confidence.

KICK-OFF: Tuesday, 3pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS...

Reading 1 (Robson-Kanu) Tottenham 3 (Defoe 2, Bale), Premier League, September 2012

Reading 0 Tottenham 1 (Keane), Premier League, May 2008

Reading 0 Tottenham 1 (Keane), FA Cup, January 2008

STATS...

In their 19 meetings since 1901, Tottenham have won nine times, with five Reading victories and four draws.

Reading's victory over West Ham ended the worst losing streak in the top flight, having not won for nine games.

Tottenham's top scorer in all competitions is Jermain Defoe, with 14, while Pavel Pogrebnyak has six for the Royals.

In the final 10 minutes of Premier League games this season, Tottenham have conceded the most times (nine).

ODDS...

Tottenham to win: 1.35

Reading to win: 11

Draw: 5.3

TV: Highlights on BBC1 at 10.25pm