Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen admits he's frustrated playing at left-back.

Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas has tended to partner Steven Caulker with either Michael Dawson or William Gallas this season and Vertonghen's versatility has seen him moved out to full-back while Assou-Ekotto recovers from a knee injury.

The Belgian said: "Yes (I'm frustrated), and the manager knows. But we needed some height in the team (against Stoke City) for the set plays and he knows I prefer centre-back, but that is enough for me.

"He respects me but tells me whenever I need to play left-back. I want to help the team.

"I love to attack. I love to go up front. It is a little more difficult than when you are playing centre back. I think my influence is better as a centre back. That is why I want to play.

"For the team it is best that I play as a centre back. I like to bring the ball out. You need to move the game quickly and that is one of my qualities as well."