Dawson: If I had wanted to leave, I could have gone

Michael Dawson has revealed that he could have left Tottenham but was determined to prove himself.

The central defender was wanted by QPR when Mark Hughes was in charge and Spurs accepted a bid from the Loftus Road club, but the club captain decided to remain at the Lane and show AVB his worth.

AVB started the season with Gallas and Kaboul as his first choice defensive partnership, and the emergence of Steven Caulker meant that Dawson’s playing opportunities were limited. However Dawson has taken the most of his chances and has forced his way back into playing contention.

Dawson said: “If I had wanted to leave, I could have gone.

“They accepted an offer for me and I chose to stay and fight for my position. I wasn’t going to jump ship at the first sign of hard times.

“But the gaffer never once left me out of things. He’s been great like that. Everyone’s got their opinions and, hopefully, I’ve changed his opinion now.

“It was hard for me, but you can never doubt your own ability. You back yourself to bounce back and perform. I think I’ve done that.

“I’ve been at Tottenham for eight years this month and it’s not always been easy. I’ve had times when I’ve been out of the team before and I’ve got back in. Now, hopefully, I can stay in for as long as possible.”

He added: “It would be nice if England wasn’t too far away again, but I have to concentrate on Tottenham.

“I can’t get carried away. A couple of months ago, I wasn’t even playing for the club.”

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