Antonio Conte said Tottenham fans played a “vital” role in helping the team secure a 1-0 win at home to Burnley.
With a number of players affected by a stomach bug – including keeper Hugo Lloris, who nevertheless played – and with the pressure on in the battle for a Champions League place, Spurs got the points they needed to move above rivals Arsenal and into fourth place in the table.
The pressure is now on the Gunners, who play Newcastle on Monday and cannot afford to slip up.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, Conte stressed the importance of the home crowd in helping his players.
He said: “For Tottenham the fans are vital because you have an amazing stadium, so to create an amazing atmosphere at every game is very important.
“The fans, if you feel they back you in a strong way, it’s normal to give much more and also be able to overcome your real possibility.
“I think our fans have to play an important role in every game and this stadium has to become a fortress for Tottenham, because it is amazing and has the characteristics to become a fortress.”
Harry Kane’s penalty was enough for Spurs, who face relegated Norwich next weekend in the final match of the season.