I had instant connection with Spurs fans but an Arsenal legend convinced me to join

However, he has also revealed how it was ex-Arsenal man Gilberto Silva who convinced him to move to north London.

After impressing at Brazilian side Internacional, Sandro sealed a move to Spurs in 2010 and made his debut in their 4-1 League Cup defeat to the Gunners.

The defensive midfielder went on to make a further 17 starts across all competitions in his first season, in which he made 26 appearances.

Sandro ultimately played 106 times for Spurs and scored three goals during his four-year stint, becoming a favourite among the fans.

Such a relationship with the supporters is one that he still cherishes to this day as he exclusively told talkSPORT: "I just love the club and I felt the connection with the fans straightaway, for the first game.

READ MORE ON TOTTENHAM

Postecoglou issues classy response to viral moment at Spurs fan event

edge

Darren Bent's combined Arsenal and Tottenham XI includes zero Spurs players

"I can't explain how the relationship became like that. I don't know, maybe it's because I put passion into every single ball.

"I was trying to give everything every game and I think that can make the difference for the fans and the fans can see it."

Sandro made 17 appearances for the Brazilian national team during his career, featuring alongside stars including Neymar, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo.

However, one of his appearances on international duty saw Arsenal legend Silva convince him to make the switch to the Premier League.

Most read in Football

Former Arsenal starlet Balogun misses two penalties before ex-Chelsea man punishes him

Ronaldo scores huge Al Nassr goal, but viewers and former Chelsea keeper couldn't see it

Ramsdale's time at Arsenal is over says Brad Friedel, who explains 'harsh' Raya decision

Man United dressing room leak, Arteta on Ramsdale or Raya dilemma, Chelsea target Toney

Silva was part of the Gunners' Invincibles squad during the 2003/04 season but played a role in persuading Sandro to sign for his club's arch-rivals Spurs.

"Yeah we were in the national team and he just heard about me coming to the Premier League. He said good things, 'Sandro you must go, the football is the greatest, you're going to love it'.

"I was happy because he was talking to me, he was in the same position and I was very pleased that he talked to me."

Spurs face Arsenal on Sunday in the season's first north London derby, an encounter that Sandro played in seven times.

Both sides have enjoyed solid starts to the season and the upcoming clash already has so much on the line with bragging rights, with the rivalry a true test for any player.

"You have to prepare yourself mentally before the game," Sandro explained as the two rivals prepare to lock horns.

"You have to go with the knife on the teeth... there's no mistakes [allowed], you have to tackle everywhere."

Sandro also offered up his prediction for the match: "I'll go for 2-2, I'll take that now. I want to see in the game, sometimes I can change for the win, but before the game I take 2-2."