Tottenham news: Campbell issues ‘really important’ Emerson Royal verdict after what he’s seen
Kevin Campbell has backed Emerson Royal to “come good” at Tottenham despite his tough start to life in the Premier League.
The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 23-year-old can be a “really important” player for Antonio Conte’s side.
Royal, who joined Tottenham from Barcelona in August 2021, dropped to the bench as Spurs slumped to a third straight league loss against Wolves on Sunday (13 February).
Ex-Chelsea and Blackburn striker Chris Sutton, speaking on the BBC’s Football Daily podcast (14 February), suggested the right-back “looks like he’s in the wrong movie” at Tottenham.
Royal has contributed one assist in 29 games since making his bow for the north London club in September.
Campbell suggested the Brazil international may be struggling to acclimate to the Premier League.
“I’m not sure whether he fits into this Conte system just yet,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I’ve seen him play many times in La Liga. He came over and started off pretty well.
“The Premier League is a lot different to Spain. Every week you are challenged and every game you are up against someone who can give you a real test.
“He’s finding his feet. It’s important to remember that it’s only his first season. He’s still adjusting to English football.
“I think he’ll come good and be a really important player for Spurs in the future. It’s just about getting over this hump right now and adjusting to a new league.”
Royal signed for Tottenham in a deal worth almost £21million last August (2021).
Spurs sit eighth in the Premier League but can move up to fourth if they win their games in hand.
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