Jose Mourinho has suggested that Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli can become one of the world’s best footballers – if he wants to.
Alli has endured a difficult period over the past year, being dropped by Gareth Southgate for England’s qualifiers in October and November, but has shown signs of a resurgence since Mourinho’s appointment as Spurs boss last month, scoring three times in three appearances under the 56-year-old’s stewardship.
The 23-year-old’s return to form has been a welcome boost to the club and hopes are high that he can continue his recent improvement, Mourinho saying that Alli possesses the ability to become one of the finest players in world football.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday night’s trip to face former side Manchester United, Mourinho said: “I think Dele Alli can do anything he wants. He has the right age and experience, playing Champions League and [for the] national team.
“He has everything – it is just a question of motivation. This is not just the individual, this is everyone.”
Tottenham travel to Old Trafford in midweek looking to record a fourth consecutive win in all competitions since Mourinho’s arrival at the club.
Last weekend’s win over Bournemouth lifted the club into fifth in the Premier League, six points adrift of another of Mourinho’s former sides, Chelsea, who currently sit in fourth.
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