Pundit ‘feels sorry for’ Doherty after major Tottenham news
Alan Hutton has claimed he “feels sorry for” Matt Doherty at Tottenham after the arrival of Emerson Royal.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs full-back admitted he was “worried” for the 29-year-old following the deadline day signing.
Spurs announced the signing of Emerson from Barcelona on Tuesday (31st August).
The Brazilian joins Doherty and Japhet Tanganga as Nuno Espirito Santo’s right-back options.
The 22-year-old academy product has been the Portuguese manager’s first-choice in the Premier League so far.
As such, Hutton admitted he wondered where Doherty, who was an untouchable under Nuno at Wolves up until last year, fits into the picture at Spurs.
“I’m probably more worried for the likes of Doherty at the moment,” Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“He’s one of those ones who likes to get forward. It’s not really quite worked.
“He’s a little bit in limbo at the moment, he’s in and out. Doherty’s maybe the one I feel sorry for at the moment.
“The other two, they will be the ones who fight it out for the right-back slots.
“That’s what it’s all about. Competition comes in and it’s up to the person already there to fight for their place.
“If they’ve brought somebody in, whether it be for backup or as a starter, it hurts you as a player. It’s happened to me through my career.
“What you’ve got to say to yourself is I’m good enough to be here and I’m going to prove it.”
Doherty started both of Tottenham’s Europa Conference League matches against Pacos de Ferreira and made a substitute appearance against Manchester City.
He has played a total of 32 times for Spurs to date.
In other news, Tottenham star “will never trust” Daniel Levy again after recent reveal, claims pundit.