Pundit issues ‘unbelievable’ Dele Alli claim after Tottenham developments
Paddy Kenny claims Dele Alli still has a chance to save his Tottenham career after being handed an unlikely start last weekend.
The former Leeds United stopper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists Antonio Conte wasn’t putting the midfielder in the shop window as he started against Liverpool.
Alli, 25, started and impressed as Tottenham drew 2-2 with Liverpool on Sunday (19 December).
This came after a Tottenham source told Football Insider the club are willing to let the midfielder leave during the January window as he does not feature in manager Antonio Conte’s plans.
Spurs would consider, loan, loan-to-buy or permanent transfer options.
Kenny insists “the door is open” for Alli to return to his previous form at Spurs.
“I was thinking Alli might just be in the shop window,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“But then I thought Conte wouldn’t play a midfielder he doesn’t want in such a big game against Liverpool.
“That would be a huge risk. He played 80 minutes and played against West Ham as well.
“I think the door is still open for him, I just think he needs to show a bit more.
“He could get back to that level, I’m sure he can. Conte is a good enough manager to do it.
“The last few years have not been good but before that he was unbelievable.
“He was a regular for England and one of the first names on the teamsheet.
“I know they are apparently looking to get rid of him but I only think that will happen if a replacement is signed.
“Otherwise Spurs are a bit short in the midfield.”
Alli has now made 15 appearances for Tottenham this season.
He has scored two goals.
In other news, an insider has named six Tottenham youngsters set for first XI selection after a ‘brilliant’ development.