Spurs assistant Poyet plays down strikers' snub

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Both players were regular starters under former boss martin Jol but new coach Juande Ramos opted for the pairing of Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe against the struggling Teessiders.

That led to speculation Ramos was sending out a message, particularly to Bulgarian Berbatov who has been accused of sulking if not being an automatic selection during Jol's reign.

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Left out: Berbatov and Keane (right) were on the bench on Saturday

But Poyet insisted: "It's just a decision you have to make in football, we thought it they were the best strikers for this game with their speed and ability to get in behind (the defence). There was nothing else behind it."

Poyet also told the official club website it is imperative for Spurs to start picking up maximum points in order to climb the table and he added: "We need to win games.

"We came here wanting to win and one point isn't enough for us but after the game and that unbelievable goal, we have to take it. If you ask me if I'm happy with a point though, I'd say 'no'."

Spurs were held to a draw after former Tottenham defender Luke Young hammered in a long-range shot in the 54th minute and Poyet said: "It wasn't the best of games and there were few opportunities.

"We scored from an individual effort from Darren Bent and thought maybe that might be enough but Young's goal gave them confidence."