Younes Kaboul immediately thanked the fans after his return to action on Saturday.

The French defender played the second half of the 1-1 draw against Espanyol at White Hart Lane.

It was his first senior appearance in almost a year after recovering from a serious knee injury - his last outing at Newcastle on the opening day of 2012-13 last August.

“It felt very good and I want to say a big thanks to the Spurs fans,” said Younes. “They’ve supported me for a year now and what they’ve done for me is incredible.

“I’ve never had that before and I want to say thanks.

“Their support inspires me, gives me more strength and power. Now I want to give them something back this season.

“I feel good, that’s the important thing. My body feels okay and I hope my injuries are now behind me.”