Emerson Royal was the best player on the pitch in Tottenham Hotspur's victory over Manchester City, journalist Alasdair Gold has claimed.

What's the word?

Spurs produced a battling performance to beat Manchester City 1-0, and whilst there were a number of standout performances in a game which saw Harry Kane become the club's all-time leading goalscorer, but the Brazilian was the best of them all.

Royal has attracted a lot of criticism for his performances this season, but did his best to silence the doubters as he produced a masterclass, engaging Jack Grealish in some entertaining battles on the Spurs right-hand side.

In his player ratings for football.london, Gold rated Royal 10/10 for his display, and heavily sung his praises.

"Kept his place despite the arrival of Porro and he popped up everywhere in the first half, including on the left and through the centre of midfield on occasions.

"Put the ball on a plate for Kane only for the striker to miss the ball early in the second half. Made some great challenges in the second half in a running battle with Grealish, including one perfect one on the England man in the Spurs box.

"His best game in a Tottenham shirt and Grealish was constantly frustrated by his defending. Man of the match."

Increased competition

Spurs completed the signing of wing-back Pedro Porro on deadline day from Sporting Lisbon, with the idea that the Spaniard would replace Royal, but the Brazilian may have been spurred on by the increased competition in his role.

The City match was deemed too soon for Porro to start, and he remained on the bench whilst Royal delivered an exceptional performance.

Royal won eight out of 12 ground duels, was fouled five times and made six clearances as per SofaScore, and will hope that this performance means he can keep his place ahead of Porro for now.