Spurs forward Erik Lamela insists he never had any thoughts about leaving White Hart Lane ahead of the new season.

The Argentine attacker joined the North London outfit in a then club-record deal from Roma in the summer of 2013 but struggled to make an impact in his debut campaign with the club.

Lamela has since established himself as a key man in the Spurs side, following the arrival of compatriot Mauricio Pochettino as manager in 2014, but the rumours surrounding his future have continued regardless.

The 24-year-old says he is puzzled by the speculation and insists he has no desire to move on to pastures new at any point in the foreseeable future.

“Ever since I came to Tottenham I have always heard that I am supposed to be leaving! It is the same every summer.

I do not know why. From the beginning my focus has always been on Tottenham, even when things did not go as planned at the start,” said Lamela, as reported by ESPN.

“I have never wanted to leave or thought about leaving. I enjoy playing for the club and get on well with all the players, the staff and supporters.

“I feel a big connection with the club and especially the fans who have always supported me so much.”

Spurs are 9.00 to win the Premier League outright and 2.40 to win their season opener at Everton.

Tottenham were involved in the title battle last term and as such managed to qualify for the Champions League.

Lamela hopes they can improve further in the season ahead and he hopes his side can impress in Europe’s top competition.

He added: “Last year we did very well by finishing third [in the Premier League]. I feel we can do even better this season.

“The Champions League will be very difficult for us. But I am confident in myself and the team to perform well in this tournament. We have a very good squad and with the right draw we can go very far.”