On the latest episode of the Last Word on Spurs podcast, Ricky Sacks, Lee McQueen, Richard Whitehead and Abbi Summers provided instant reaction to Tottenham Hotspur’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle United last weekend.
One topic of discussion on the recent episode, which was titled: ‘Game Gone Mad‘, was Spurs midfielder Dele Alli.
After a disappointing performance in the midweek Europa League game against KF Shkendija, the former MK Dons man was left out of Jose Mourinho’s squad to face Newcastle United on Sunday.
The 24-year-old has managed just 46 minutes of Premier League action so far this season, and it has been suggested that Spurs have offered him out to clubs in recent weeks.
Here’s what McQueen had to say about the Englishman during the podcast:
“I love him, I think he’s a superstar in the making. I think he’s already proved himself as well. He’s scored 50 goals in 157 Premier League games.
“So, I’m gutted that he’s been left out but I do think that there is a big clear message here from Jose Mourinho.
“Again, he had some quotes this week that were very much aimed at Dele. He was talking about hard work and the reality is that work ethic, working hard – there’s no substitute for it. Success comes when you work your backside off.”
He later adds:
“For me, personally, I think that this is a test. Look in the mirror Dele, can you get into the side? Do you want to get back into the side? Do you want to step up like Tanguy Ndombele has done and earn your place?”
TIF Thoughts…
McQueen certainly seems to think that Mourinho is testing Alli and is hoping that he improves on his work rate and work ethic in training and matches.
The Portuguese manager spoke last week about having to earn your place in his side, and therefore, it was perhaps no surprise to see the 24-year-old dropped completely, after what was a really poor display in North Macedonia, as he earned a 6.19 rating for his performance.
Do you agree that Mourinho is testing Alli?
Yes
No
It will be interesting to see whether Alli can work hard to impress his manager and re-establish himself in this Spurs side but at the moment, it is certainly not looking good for the midfielder.