Tottenham fullback Benoit Assou-Ekotto has dismissed criticism of not being connected to the club.

Assou-Ekotto has hit back at claims that he is mercenary.

He told the Guardian: "The reaction persists and, in France, it has been predominantly negative to the point where I find it almost pretentious.

"To say that players should not appreciate the context in which they operate is stupid. Football is like a business now.

"In England, it's more objective. People are more cool about players earning millions. It's also not whether they agree with what I say, it's that there is a respect for the fact I was man enough to say it.

"I must say, as well, that I have seen quite a few Spurs players kiss the badge and then f*** off. I am still here."