COLIN Todd called for the AA to give Spurs a rough ride at the Reebok tonight.

The Wanderers boss believes the twin threats of aggression on the field and atmosphere in the stands is the blueprint for Premiership success.

Far from being ashamed by accusations that his players were over-committed in Saturday's derby stalemate and that the support was hostile and partisan, he has asked for repeat performances on both fronts.

"Long may it continue," Todd enthused. "The fans have created a magnificent atmosphere at the Reebok and against Manchester United the players produced passion, commitment and a determination.

"That's what we want tonight and in every game."

Todd, who must decide whether to stick with John McGinlay or recall Peter Beardsley alongside Nathan Blake, is unrepentant after disparaging reports of Saturday's derby stalemate.

He conceded that referee Paul Durkin was justified in showing Blake the red card for his much-publicised first half clash with Gary Pallister but defended his team against claims that they over-stepped the mark with their full-blooded approach.

"There's nothing wrong with aggression, as long as it is controlled," he argued. "It's part of football. Nobody is advocating that players go out to kick opponents, least of all me. But we need steel and resilience to do well in this league.

"And if people describe the atmosphere as hostile or partisan, all well and good. We want the Reebok to become a fortress."

Home sections are again sold out for the third game in succession for a clash which is likely to see Spurs determined to avenge last season's 6-1 Coca-Cola Cup humiliation at Burnden Park.

Confidence has been greatly boosted by the performance against the Champions and Premiership favourites but Wanderers know they must guard against the revenge factor.

"Tottenham will want to restore some lost pride," Todd acknowledged, "and they have some good players who will need to be watched. But, once again, it's about how well we play ourselves. We've got to make sure they don't come here and cause us any problems."

Monaco's African striker Mabula Lukunku is likely to return to France on Thursday without any firm offer from Wanderers.

The 21-year-old Zaire international is having a three-day trial at the Reebok but Todd will need to see him in match action before he makes a decision.

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