Manchester City manager Mark Hughes admits he is still struggling to find the right blend in his side.
He has seen his team score goals for fun at home but they remain vulnerable to counter-attacks. That was the case again when Steve McClaren's FC Twente were beaten 3-2 in the UEFA Cup.
He said: "Once we get the balance right of scoring goals and keeping clean sheets, then we will be a very good side."
Hughes would like to see a more disciplined display on Sunday when they face a Tottenham side, revitalised by Harry Redknapp.
They had an easier victory in the competition beating Dinamo Zagreb 4-0 at White Hart Lane.
Hughes wants his team to bounce back after successive away league defeats to Bolton and Middlesbrough.
"What we have to do better in is one v one situations. We need to come out with the ball more often.
"We also need a reality check on occasions when you have to understand what period of the game you are in and see it out more comfortably.
"We have five guys in the box trying to score with only six minutes to go. I do not think we should be criticised for that, though, as we are showing a positive attitude.
"At home we are always a threat and are looking to get back on track and make amends after losing our last two league games. We did that a little bit against Twente but the league is our bread and butter."
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