George Graham says Juande Ramos has the ability to lift Tottenham ahead of Arsenal in the coming seasons.

The former Spurs and Gunners manager told The Sun: "Ramos looks like a good rival for Wenger in that he is calm, talented and devoted to fitness and discipline.

"He has a real granite face and is not the kind of coach you'd like to upset. I like that.

"I've enormous admiration for the football Wenger produces but he is happy to stick with the kids this year. I'm concerned you can't keep developing a new side each season.

"At the very top level you need a settled, consistent, experienced side.

Perhaps there are still some financial restrictions and Arsene is expected to keep on pulling rabbits out of that hat every season with cheaper, unknown young talents. It's very, very hard to do year after year.

"Everyone thought last season was the one where Spurs would overhaul Arsenal and overtake them for a Champions League place.

"But Arsenal got off to a flier and it just didn't happen for Spurs.

"If I were Ramos this season, I'd be making noises in public about needing time to gel and how this is my first full season. Privately, though, I'd definitely be telling the Spurs players they are what they are - world-class players.

"I'd be convincing them there is no reason not to target Arsenal. They must be ready and push for fourth place if the Gunners slip up.

"It's a massive ask and fifth would be a good achievement for Tottenham but they must be ambitious in light of the talent they've bought."