Sampdoria coach Mimmo di Carlo is desperate to avoid Tottenham in the Champions League qualifiers.
Sampdoria finished fourth last season in Serie A and could be on course to face Harry Redknapp's side, who are entering Europe's premier competition for the first time.
But Di Carlo said: "There is only one team that I would like to avoid - Tottenham.
"In August the English clubs start out very strong and they would put us under a great deal of pressure in terms of tempo.
"The others, albeit strong, I would take on with optimism."
