Ian Wright admits Tottenham Hostspur are Premier League contenders

Ian Wright thinks Tottenham Hotspur are genuine contenders to win the Premier League. The 52-year-old pundit has begrudgingly admitted the north London club could pip his former side Arsenal to the title.

Wright was impressed by Tottenham's dominant display against Everton during their 1-1 draw on January 3. The former striker praised the strength of Spurs's squad, but said he hopes he is wrong about their title-winning credentials.

"There is a spine to the team that suggests there is no way they will blow up after putting themselves in a challenging position, like they have in the past," Wright said, in his column in The Sun. "I could be wrong. I hope I am! But even though it was a bit worrying they didn't get the three points their performance at Goodison deserved, I think they are serious title contenders this time."

Wright also lavished praise on Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli, who has been one of their best performers this season. The 19-year-old star scored Spurs' goal during their draw against Everton and appears set to be selected by England manager Roy Hodgson for Euro 2016.

Looking back at Alli's first start in an England shirt against France, Wright said: "Alli was very comfortable in an environment that a lot of youngsters would find quite intimidating, certainly at first. He puffed his chest out and almost dared people to say he wasn't ready [to play against France]."

Wright said the Tottenham man has the necessary self-belief to become a top player. He explained: "He's also got wonderful technical ability. But so do a lot of other young players. It usually takes them longer to get that self-belief and confidence."