Thimothee Atouba today revealed that the camaraderie of his Tottenham team-mates has helped him settle in at White Hart Lane. The Cameroon international, a free signing from FC Basle in the summer, admitted: « I did find it a little difficult at first because I arrived just before the season started so I have put my focus on my football. When I have a little bit of time free I will start to look for a flat and organise all the other things in my life. »
The 22-year-old quickly won the fans over with a stunning winner at Newcastle and has been impressed by the support of the fans and his Spurs colleagues.
He said: « Since I joined from Basle, I have noticed big differences – the size of the club and the big support of the fans.
« I am getting on very well with all the other players and there is a very good spirit in the dressing room. There are different people, some like to clown around, others are more serious. I get on with them all and things will only get better as I go along.
« Freddie Kanoute is the one that does all the translating for me. He is very helpful. My English isn’t so good but I am starting to learn and it is good to have some French speakers here. »
The midfielder is confident Spurs can continue their impressive start under Jacques Santini.
« I am not surprised because of the group of players we have, » he said. « When I was at Basle I won two championships with a good group of players. As soon as I started training here, I had every confidence in the ability of the squad. »
By Wayne Veysey, Evening Standard
