Spurs boss pleased to have England midfielder back to fitness

Andre Villas-Boas has welcomed the return to action of Scott Parker and insisted the England midfielder can only help improve Spurs' season so far.

Parker played a full 90 minutes for Tottenham reserves on Tuesday, his first game since having surgery on an Achilles' tendon problem after Euro 2012.

Although the former West Ham and Newcastle man will not feature against Panathinaikos in the Europa League on Thursday night, he could be back for the visit of Swansea City in ten days' time.

Villas-Boas said: “He’s an amazing player, his return is such a big boost for us.

"He was our player of the season last year, a big influence in the midfield. I think he is exceptional and someone who can give us major help.

"He gives us more options and certainly a player of his dimension offers much more. We are very, very grateful to see him back.”

The 31-year-old was voted as Footballer Of The Year in 2011 and was one of the Premier League's best performers last season.

His attitude to the game and determination to get back into the side have also pleased Villas-Boas since his arrival at White Hart Lane in the summer.

“At the moment, I think he is focused on getting back into the first team," he added. 

"That is his big motivation at the moment. Obviously he wants to be part of the team and I’m sure he will get into the team, we don’t doubt his ability and his qualities. I think we will see him back.”