Robinson shares Lamela 'surprise' ahead of Tottenham v Everton
Paul Robinson has heaped praise on Tottenham attacker Erik Lamela ahead of Wednesday night's FA Cup fifth round tie against Everton.
The former White Hart Lane number one, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, said the 28-year-old was "brilliant" against West Brom on Sunday and played a "big part" in unlocking a stubborn Sam Allardyce side.
Lamela made his first league start since November on Sunday as Spurs bounced back from three straight defeats to beat the Baggies 2-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The Argentina international completed all five of his attempted passes into the final third against West Brom and boasted an overall pass completion rate of 85 per cent. (Wyscout)
Robinson believes the attacking midfielder is a big part of Jose Mourinho's plans despite having entered the final 18 months of his contract.
"I was very surprised to see him selected for the West Brom game," he told Football Insider.
"When you look at the players Spurs have in forward areas, the likes of Gareth Bale, you think Lamela may struggle for game time.
"There has been talk about his future this year but he showed once again why he is a very valued member of the squad ahead of the Everton match.
"You know what you are going to get from him, hard work and creativity. He brings a real attacking impetus to the side.
"I thought he was brilliant at the weekend.
"It was a better Spurs performance but a poor game. It was like a training ground game but you can only beat what is in front of you.
"West Brom were on damage limitation. Spurs had to unlock the door though and Lamela was a big part of that. He did very, very well."