Andre Villas-Boas has said that Tottenham Hotspur's Europa League scare against Inter Milan will have a positive effect on his team.

The North Londoners survived a thrilling fightback at the San Siro to book their place in the quarter-finals at the Nerazzurri's expense.

The Portuguese coach believes his team learned a vital lesson and said that they are in confident mood ahead of tonight's clash with Basel at White Hart Lane.

"Our experience versus Inter will be good for us long term, it shows no advantage gives you safety," the 35-year-old told reporters. "We learnt a lesson. We want to play well and avoid giving them any away goals.

"Basel were knocked out in the Champions League playoff, they're a team that have played well in Europe, especially recently.

"These ties are difficult and unpredictable. We are in a good state of mind and confident. Basel will also be confident. They put out tough teams as we have in this competition."

The second leg will take place at St Jakob-Park next Thursday.