Tottenham news: Pundit issues 'massive' Matt Doherty claim and issues Emerson Royal verdict
Matt Doherty has a "massive opportunity" to take the right wing-back berth by the "scruff of the neck" at Tottenham, according to Alan Hutton.
The former Spurs defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed Emerson Royal, 23, is "not the answer" for manager Antonio Conte.
Doherty has found his feet at Tottenham after a difficult start to life in north London, starting four of the last seven league games.
The Republic of Ireland international has notched one goal and four assists in his last six appearances.
Speaking before tomorrow's clash against Man United (12 March) and quoted by football.london, Conte hailed Doherty for "improving a lot" during his tenure.
Hutton suggested the former Wolves man is building his confidence "slowly but surely" after a muted start at Tottenham.
“It was obviously a difficult transition for him, moving club and having to play a style he wasn’t used to,” he told Football Insider's Russell Edge.
“But with Conte coming in, we know that he wants to play that formation that Doherty excelled in at Wolves.
“He’s started to play to the best of his ability. He scored against Leeds and almost got another goal against Everton.
“He’s slowly but surely building that confidence and understanding up. I think there’s a massive opportunity for someone to take that position by the scruff of the neck.
“Emerson Royal, for me, isn’t the answer. I’ve watched him throughout the season, and he’s really struggled.
“We’re starting to see the best of Doherty but it’s about showing the manager that he’s capable of playing there long-term.”
Doherty joined Tottenham in August 2020 but has made just 39 starts for the club.
Football Insider revealed last week (3 March) that Spurs are targetting Southampton right-back Tino Livramento ahead of this summer.