Statistics can be used to prove anything, so says the old adage.
And for supporters of Tottenham, finishing second in the Premier League last season — above rivals Arsenal — was proof enough that the balance of power had shifted in north London.
Under Mauricio Pochettino, Spurs have developed into one of the most exciting and promising teams in European football.
Based around an English core of Eric Dier, Harry Winks, Dele Alli and Harry Kane, they have finished second and third in the previous two seasons and recently outplayed Real Madrid at Wembley.