Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp believes that he had no choice but to rest players in the Europa League in order to continue their impressive run in the Premier League.

The North London side are unlikely to reach the knockout stages of the European competition following a 2-1 defeat to PAOK Salonika at White Hart Lane last night.

Despite the potential exit, the former Portsmouth boss stands by tinkering with his team for the benefit of their league campaign.

"It was a different team and it is hard when you make a lot of changes," said Redknapp. "We have been lucky so far and the important thing is that we have the players fresh for the Premier League at the weekend.

"We have changed the team in this competition and that is why we have done so well in the league, where we have won nine and drawn one in our last ten games."

Spurs take on Bolton Wanderers at home this Saturday.