A thrilling 2015/16 campaign for Tottenham Hotspur may have ended in disappointment but there's no doubt the north London club are on the rise.

Mauricio Pochettino has forged a young, energetic and exciting team that only grew in statute and confidence with practically every game last season - and they're now about to undertake a new challenge of competing in the Champions League.

Admittedly, involvement in Europe's top competition could affect the Lilywhites' form domestically and with the move to a new stadium just around the corner, Pochettino may not be able to spend as lavishly as some of his Premier League counterparts this summer.

But the Premier League's official fixture list for 2016/17, released online just moments ago, should give a hint of whether the White Hart Lane outfit will be competing at the top end of the table once again next season.

With that in mind, we've taken a look at FIVE key fixtures that could decide Tottenham's 2016/17 campaign.

SPURS VS LIVERPOOL - August 27th

Should the Premier League return to more normal proceedings next season, it's more than likely Liverpool and Spurs will find themselves in a bar fight for fourth-to-sixth-place. The Reds are improving all the time under Klopp and haven't actually lost to the Londoners in their last seven meetings, so it's crucial Tottenham get a good result at home.

ARSENAL VS SPURS - November 5th

If Spurs are to ever break the curse of finishing behind Arsenal, they need to claim points against their local rivals at the Emirates - which will not only ensure bragging rights but could make the difference between a title bid and a top four push.

SPURS VS CHELSEA - January 2nd

Spurs' record against Chelsea is far from the best and that 2-2 draw at the end of last season has left the London rivalry with a really sour taste. Beating the Blues will undoubtedly have an impact at the top of the Premier League table next season and heel some wounds amongst the fan base. Th

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WEST HAM VS SPURS< - 6th May

Losing to West Ham cost Spurs dearly last season and Pochettino will be desperate not to make the same mistake again. Likewise, winning at the Olympic Stadium could well eliminate West Ham from top four contention.

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SPURS VS MANCHESTER UNITED - 13th May

This fixture has become a lot closer in recent years with two wins, two draws and two defeats apiece from Spurs and United's last six meetings. During that time, the two clubs have moved in opposite directions so a home win for the Lilywhites could continue to polarise their fortunes.

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