The big day is here.

Spurs have finally earned the right to look Gareth Bale in the eyes and and say… oh hang one, that’s right.

This is a marketing ideal.

I’m looking forward to the game with a sense of macabre fascination. Whilst pre-season friendlies are no barometer of what awaits us in the season proper, surely this is an exercise that could well result in Spurs having their pants pulled down on a global stage.

Of course, the best case scenario is that we play with such indefatigable spirit, pluck and wit that we accredit ourselves with some sense of honour. If we’re honest, it is quite unlikely we’ll win this micro tournament.

But does either outcome leave us in the best shape for a trip to the still heavy spending Manchester United on Saturday? If you can make a coherent case, please do share with the group.

Pochettino believes that Hugo could be ready for the Old Trafford trip, but it’s far from certain.

In terms of Saturday, it is tough. It’s not easy because we do a lot of work on physical condition, but maybe this week he will start to catch the ball.

Maybe it’s early to think he will play on Saturday, but maybe he has a small chance. We don’t decide yet. His wrist was an accident. He broke it close to the swimming pool, it was unlucky because he’s a keeper.”

So just to recap, that’s Man United away in 4 days time with more likely than not, Vorm in goal.

Here’s our full squad, and quite possibly our starting line up in full.

That’s what I’d do baby, 3 in goal, freight up the middle the park, and look to feed Kaneinho on the counter.

Sadly, this isn’t going to be one of these whacky, good natured affairs like a testimonial.

Rafa Benitez told the world’s sporting press:

“For Real Madrid it’s important to win the Audi Cup, just as it is to win every other competition, and we are going to try and do it although we know it will be hard because we face some big rivals.

Every game is important. We have a great squad and we analyse every game. We have two important matches against very good teams here and both are important for our players.”

You can catch all the action on Premier Sports, with the channel also showing the second semi-final game between Bayern and Milan at 7.45pm.

Curious that THFC made no provision for their own fans to access this game. Of not so curious when you understand that nobody gives a damn about the client reference numbers.

Small prediction.

Today is the launch of the purple kit. At time of writing it still hasn’t been launched.

Laughably, the tip that it was being streamed by Audi & Facebook was a lie.

You heard it here first.

Look who knows, maybe we win today?

And maybe when I go to take a bath later, Mena Suvari will already be in it.