Andre Villas-Boas denies Tottenham are chasing Celtic striker Gary Hooper

Andre Villas-Boas has played down speculation linking Tottenham with Gary Hooper after denying he had gone to Scotland to scout the Celtic hitman.

Reports last week claimed the Portuguese had travelled to Parkhead to watch the striker grab a brace during Celtic's 4-0 thrashing of Dundee United.

Spurs are particularly light up front at the moment, with Jermain Defoe troubled by a pelvic injury and Emmanuel Adebayor on duty with Togo at the African Cup of Nations.

However, Villas-Boas says he did not go to Glasgow and insists he is happy with the players he already has at his disposal.

"I was never in Scotland seeing a player," said the Tottenham manager.

"He has massive talent but never mentioned to us. We have enough cover. Good news on Defoe to have him back."

Hooper, 24, has grabbed 23 goals this season and is a firm target for Norwich boss Chris Hughton.