Harry Redknapp has promised Tottenham will go on the attack when it faces AC Milan in the second leg of its Champions League last-16 tie at White Hart Lane on Wednesday.

Redknapp's side is in pole position to reach the quarterfinals after Peter Crouch's goal secured a 1-0 win in a tempestuous first leg at the San Siro last month.

In the circumstances it would be easy for Redknapp to employ a low-risk defensive strategy aimed at frustrating Milan, but the Spurs boss is adamant he will stick to the cavalier approach that has already produced several high-scoring wins in the competition.

"I think we've got enough to hurt Milan at home. We'll be positive," Redknapp said. "We will play an attacking team. We'll play (Aaron) Lennon and probably Gareth Bale and have a go."

Redknapp's commitment to attack is understandable given the wealth of creative talent at his disposal, especially since Wales winger Bale returned from six weeks out with a back injury in Sunday's 3-3 draw at Wolves.

Dutch playmaker Rafael van der Vaart could also feature after recovering from a calf injury, but it is the presence of Bale that is most likely to worry Milan.

His virtuoso displays against Inter Milan in the group stage established Bale as one of Europe's brightest young stars and Redknapp can't wait to unleash him on the Italian league leader.

"When Gareth came on and started to run with the ball at Wolves it was exciting. We've missed that for the last five or six weeks," Redknapp said.

"That was his first real exertion for six weeks. He started straight away to run with the ball and, when he does that, he scares people to death.

"He carries the game at the opposition and that makes a massive difference.

"Peter Crouch has had a great European campaign as well. And van der Vaart has a good chance for Wednesday. I hope he will be fit."

Massimiliano Allegri's side has been the most formidable team in Serie A this season, but Italian football is at a low ebb at present and it would be little surprise if Tottenham followed in the footsteps of Arsenal and Manchester United after their Premier League rivals also dumped out Milan in recent years.

Milan underlined its dominance in Italy with a 1-0 win at Juventus on Sunday, but it will be without several experienced players at White Hart Lane.