Agbonlahor tips Spurs to bin Lamela, claims Real Reason he's back in the XI
Gabriel Agbonlahor has tipped Tottenham to bin winger Erik Lamela because he's lost the zip to go past opponents.
The former England and Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the only reason the 28-year-old started against West Brom was that Jose Mourinho does not trust Gareth Bale.
Lamela was handed just his third Premier League start of the season against Albion and his first since returning from a calf injury that saw him miss almost two months of action.
The Argentina international's contract expires at the end of the season and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano tweeted in January he had no plans to leave the club.
Asked whether he thinks Lamela has a long-term future at Spurs, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “No, not at all.
“He’s not the same player he used to be, Lamela.
“When I watch him now, he doesn’t really get past anyone, he doesn’t score or assist.
“I think Jose Mourinho is just playing him because he’s annoyed at Gareth Bale. He’s just playing Lamela because he’s got nobody else to play.
“If Jose Mourinho is given a bit of money he will definitely get rid of Lamela.
“I think he'll keep Moura because he’s a good squad player and he does OK when he plays.
“Someone like Lamela will be gone for sure. He’s not really lived up to expectations.”
Lamela has scored twice in 18 appearances across all competitions but is yet to find the net in the Premier League.
His last top-flight goal came in Spurs' 4-0 win over Crystal Palace in September 2019.