Spurs sit just one point above the Premier League relegation zone but the Dutch defender has taken exception to suggestions that many of the players are more concerned about their own careers instead of the club's plight.

Speaking ahead of Tottenham's Champions League last 16 second leg clash with Atletico Madrid on Wednesday (18.03.26), Van de Ven said: "Of course I've seen things [written].

"Reporters just say things sometimes and it's like, 'How did you come up with this?' Like, the players have switched off. It's not true.

"They say players are going to leave either way. It's just nonsense and it's only a problem when people start believing it. It's just the biggest nonsense.

"Sometimes we read things by ourselves and are like, 'What is this?' The other day we read something about one guy who is going to leave and doesn't care what happens. We are just reading this like, 'How did this come out?'"

The centre-back continued: "It brings so much more trouble because fans are starting to believe this.

"All the people involved care so much about the situation we're in. That's the most important thing right now. Then if some reports come out saying that guys don't care anymore, it's just frustrating for our guys.

"For me it's frustrating because people start thinking about me in a different way. I just want to stay fit and turn things around. I know the last games haven't been my best. The most important thing is that I give 100 per cent to this club."

Spurs interim boss Igor Tudor stressed that the players care and hopes that his team can build on the battling 1-1 draw they earned against Liverpool in the Premier League last weekend.

The coach said: "Of course, it's important. When you have one good performance, it gives confidence to everyone. It confirms the goodwill.

"The players really care. At the moment it is so difficult. I believe one good moment happened last game. We have to be honest with what we can give on the pitch. I am happy for everyone and now we have to continue."