Tom Huddlestone praised Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp over managing his squad after victory over West Ham United.
Huddlestone was playing on his 23rd birthday after being on the bench with Jermain Defoe for the Boxing Day draw at Fulham.
Defoe struck a stunning goal in the 2-0 win.
Huddlestone said: "We felt sharp. Some of the lads who played on Boxing Day said they felt a bit stiff and fatigued so for me and Jermain to be rested or dropped, or however you like to say, we were fresh."
Defoe believes Spurs have the quality to remain in the top four this season and earn a Champions League place.
"We've got a fantastic squad, great players and I think we're good enough to compete up there," he said.