Pundit issues verdict on Dele Alli U-turn from Conte after what he’s seen at Tottenham
Antonio Conte could hand Dele Alli another chance at Tottenham, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old could “rekindle the goalscoring form” which saw him burst onto the scene as a youngster.
Alli earned his first league start under Conte as Tottenham drew 2-2 at home against Liverpool on Sunday (19 December).
As quoted by the Evening Standard after the game, the Italian insisted the midfielder played a “good game” – and hinted that the former MK Dons man is well-suited to his favoured 3-5-2 formation.
Conte praised Alli’s “penetration”, with the 25-year-old completing five dribbles during the game – the most of any player.
A Tottenham source has told Football Insider that Alli is available for permanent, loan or loan-to-buy deals in January.
Whelan suggested that the England international is “at a crossroads”.
“Conte may have watched him and thought he can be a useful player for him,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Let’s not forget, he’s only 25 years of age.
“If he can stay in the side and keep up that good attitude, he could get back amongst the goals at Tottenham and rekindle that goalscoring form we saw in his first few seasons.
“It’s a crossroads for him now. I’ve questioned his hunger and desire for the game of football after some really poor performances. However, that performance on Sunday was a complete contrast.”
Alli is out of contract at Tottenham in 2024 after signing an extension in 2018.
The 37-cap England international managed just three goals in 29 games last season.
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