]

Tottenham defender Michael Dawson says the whole squad are in a positive frame of mind after a good pre-season.

Spurs continued their pre-season preparations with a 5-1 win at Leyton Orient and Dawson feels things are ticking along nicely ahead of the big kick-off next month.

Dawson, who has signed a new long-term deal at White Hart Lane, admits the side are determined to build on their Carling Cup success last year and improve their league position.

"The last few years the league position has not been the best," Dawson told Sky Sports News. "We won the Carling Cup last season and this year we want to build on that and hopefully have a good season.

Positive

"The mood is positive, everyone is excited, we have had a good pre-season and are looking forward to it."

Dawson also backed in-form striker Darren Bent after he made it seven goals in two games with a hat-trick in the win over Leyton Orient.

"He has scored seven goals in two games, so he has got to be happy with that and that is what Benty is all about - scoring goals."