Mason praises players but accepts Man City's stronger foundations made the difference

Interim boss Ryan Mason believes his players 'gave their all' at Wembley but accepts Man City's years of accumulated success tipped the scales in their favour.

Pep Guardiola's men made it four League Cup wins in a row as a late header from Aymeric Laporte settled the outcome.

Spurs had to defend grimly at times, particularly during a one-sided first half, and could have few complaints about a 1-0 defeat which leaves them still looking to end a trophy-drought that has lasted 13 years.

"I thought we were 100 per cent committed but they are a very good side," said the 29-year-old rookie boss who was thrust into the role after the shock dismissal of Jose Mourinho on Monday.

"I thought we rode our luck at times, but I thought as the game went on, they were creating less and I thought we were coming into the game.

"It was disappointing to concede from a set piece and that being the difference in the game, but the guys gave absolutely everything. They believed they tried and left everything on the pitch.

"We're very disappointed with the result, obviously, but I can't fault the lads' effort."

Mason continued: "It was a difficult match. They had long spells of possession City are probably four or five years ahead of us. They've had a manger for such a long time who's worked a certain way for such a long time.

"Going forward, my idea and I'm sure everyone's idea of Tottenham, is to be brave and try and dominate games like they do. It's a process that takes time. Going forward we want more confidence on the ball, more arrogance, but it's normal.

"We had two days to prepare for this game against the best team in the country. It's difficult to take but I'm proud of the boys because they gave absolutely everything."

Tottenham's season has been a major disappointment and started to unravel even before the capitulation in Zagreb which saw them dumped out of the Europa League and spelt the beginning of the end for Mourinho.

But Mason believes his players will regroup and fight hard in their remaining league games to achieve a Champions League spot for next season.

"There are top professionals in this group," he said. "We saw that on Wednesday [against Southampton] the way they reacted to me. It's tough to take losing a cup final but we have things to play for and need to get over this as quickly as possible.

We have to accept it.

"We have a massive week ahead with a really big game next weekend [v Sheffield United]. We are all hurting and I'm sure the fans are. It's my job now to give the players a platform, to start planning and preparing."