Hutton issues behind-the-scenes Tottenham claim as Ivan Perisic rivalry emerges
Alan Hutton has insisted Ryan Sessegnon will be the first choice left wing-back at Tottenham over Ivan Perisic - but the Croatian will continue to be highly influential behind the scenes.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and Aston Villa right-back said that Perisic will be "breathing down the neck" of Sessegnon for a place in the starting XI.
Perisic was in the starting lineup for the Lilywhites in their game against Wolves last Saturday (20 August) and provided the assist for Harry Kane's goal.
Sessegnon was on the bench and replaced the Croatian for the final 15 minutes of the 1-0 victory.
When asked if Perisic will be a key member of the starting lineup moving forward, Hutton told Football Insider: "I’m not sure if he’s a key member as in he’s going to start week-in week-out.
"Of course he can come in and do a job, a lot of places in that team are up for grabs. I think Sessegnon has done well but Perisic will be breathing down his neck. I think he gives something a little bit different.
"For me, Sessegnon is the one moving forward.
"I think Perisic has got all the attributes to be a top quality wing-back but it’s not just what he gives you on the pitch, it’s off the pitch as well. His experience, his know-how, he’s an international player, so to have that experience within the dressing room obviously, that’s what you need as well so I think it just gives you that as well as good performances."