Tottenham host Lazio in the Europa League this Thursday night on the back of their first domestic win of the season against Reading on Sunday.

The 3-1 scoreline hardly flattered Andre Villas-Boas’ side, who produced an energetic and rhythmic display capped by two goals from Jermaine Defoe, who remains in unstoppable form. In truth Reading looked both naive and rusty after a three-week break, but the manner in which Spurs dominated the match will have provided much relief for their supporters after an uncertain start to the campaign.

Tottenham v Lazio Match Odds

Tottenham – 37/40 Bet Victor

Draw – 13/5 Blue Square

Lazio – 7/2 Boylesports

Under Harry Redknapp Tottenham took a developmental approach to the Europa League, with game-time given to players not regularly featuring in weekend league matches. However, Thursday’s tie provides AVB with an opportunity to rotate, but also to give players who will no doubt feature on a regular basis a chance to find some form. Hugo Lloris is almost certain to start in goal after finding the considerable frame of Brad Freidel blocking a move straight into the first team, whilst fellow summer signings Clint Dempsey and Emmanuel Adebayor have yet to start a game this season. Dempsey has a good goal-scoring record in this competition with Fulham, and may be worth a punt at 6/1 if he is finally given a starting berth. In the continued absence of Scott Parker, Jake Livermore and Tom Huddlestone are also likely to be involved as AVB continues to learn about his squad, whilst Michael Dawson and Steven Caulker have found themselves behind Gallas and Jan Vertongen in the pecking order in central defence and may be given a run-out.

Lazio will represent a significant test for Spurs, who’s last outing also produced a 3-1 victory against Chievo on Sunday and who boast a 100% league record so far this season. Winners of this competition in 2000, they, like Spurs, finished fourth in Serie A last term, thanks in large part to the goals of veteran German marksman Miroslav Klose, who netted 16 times including 13 in the league. Mauro Zarate, who had a brief loan spell in the Premier League with Birmingham City four years ago, is another to watch in the first goalscorer market. Zarate spent much of last season on loan at Inter with limited success, but has appeared revitalised this season back in Rome under new Lazio head coach Vladimir Petkovic, playing just off front man Klose, and should be priced around 10/1.

Lazio are a good side in great form, but Tottenham look to be finding a rhythm of their own and will be confident at home of a win.  The draw is priced at around 13/5, and that looks the best bet.

Tottenham vs Lazio Best Betting Tip

Match to be a draw – 13/5 with Blue Square (open a Blue Square account here and get a free £25 credited to your account)