Tottenham Hotspur have made their best start in the top flight in 51 years courtesy of a 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium this afternoon.

Mauricio Pochettino's side were without Harry Kane for the first time since 2014-15 following an ankle injury but nevertheless made certain of another three points thanks to an early double from Son Heung-min.

Spurs were on the attack right from the off, with Victor Valdes between the Boro sticks diving well to keep out Dele Alli's long-range effort after just six minutes played.

Son's first of the afternoon was to come soon after, however, as Vincent Janssen - in for Kane - played a one-two for the South Korean, who evaded Adam Clayton and Calum Chambers before putting it past Valdes from 10 yards.

The advantage was doubled midway through the half when Son found himself pegged in down the left of the area before curling it in with a right-footed shot into the far corner.

Alli had a penalty shout turned down after seemingly being tripped by the fit-again Christian Stuani, then missed a sitter with the interval beckoning.

Spurs appeared to reduce the pressure in the second half and were duly punished as the home side pulled one back with 25 minutes remaining. Stuart Downing's free kick from the left was met by Ben Gibson, who rose highest to beat Hugo Lloris with a powerful downward header.

The momentum then switched in favour of Boro, who could have restored parity on 79 minutes had Jordan Rhodes's header not found the gloves of Lloris.

That was to be the last of the chances, however, as Spurs held firm to make it five wins from six and move up to second in the table.