Tottenham manger Mauricio Pochettino believes that Dele Alli has looked out of sorts so far this season and that his absence from the Champions League group stages has hindered him.
The 21-year-old attacking midfield has made a mixed start to the campaign and missed the opening three European matches due to suspension.
He is line to feature on Wednesday night at home to Real Madrid and that could be the perfect game to spark his form.
Allí has managed five goals in his opening 12 games in all competitions so far this campaign, but the England international has huge pressure on his shoulders and has fallen short of his usual standard.
Pochettino acknowledged that the playmaker is still yet to get up to full speed, but is predicting his best lies just around the corner.
“I think he had a difficult pre-season for different reasons and then he was banned [in Europe],” Pochettino said, as quoted by Football London.
“It can affect the motivation when you’re not competing in an exciting competition and you stay here alone at the training ground.
“The last three games he’s played we’ve been happy with his performance. He is increasing his level and I am not worried about him.
“It’s true he’s not in his best, but it’s coming. Like winter it’s coming.”
OPINION
Alli has won the PFA Young Player of the Year award in the Premier League for the past two seasons and the pressure now is for him to compete for the main prize. The technically gifted attacker has shown glimpses of his quality so far and contributing with goals is a big part to his game. He has also demonstrated he can fill a more disciplined role in midfield if required, but will be keen to get back to his best form when he is deadly in the final third. The Madrid clash could be the perfect platform for him to shine and remind people of his immense quality.