Tottenham Hotspur defender Emerson Royal 'belongs nowhere near' a top six side like the Lilywhites, according to journalist Ethan Budowsky.

The Lowdown: Spurs fall to first defeat...

Spurs fell to their first defeat of the 2022/2023 season on Tuesday with Sporting Lisbon snatching a last-gasp 2-0 victory over the Premier League side at home.

Antonio Conte's men conceded two late goals with the game on a knife edge, handing them a Champions League group stage loss in really dramatic fashion.

Commenting on the trip to Portugal, reporter Budowsky claims the north Londoners were 'exposed' by Sporting and says the hosts took particular aim at Fabio Paratici signing Royal.

The Latest: Journalist slams Royal...

The Brazilian has been a favourite under Conte so far this campaign, starting every game under him in all competitions, but the WSVN 7 sports producer is adamant he 'belongs nowhere near' a top six side.

Budowsky explained:

"Pathetic performance from Tottenham. Deserved result. They’ve been exposed. Emerson Royal is the worst player on every pitch he steps on. Belongs nowhere near a Top 6 club."

The Verdict: Harsh?

Royal has so far ranked as one of Spurs' top five best performers by average match rating and only star defender Cristian Romero has averaged a higher rate of tackles per 90 (WhoScored).

On that basis, the 23-year-old shines defensively, but Conte's fondness for attacking-minded wing-backs does make you question Royal's suitability for the role.

Real Betis' former star has also been questioned for his suitability to English football, and if he doesn't improve in some regards, Conte could be looking to summer signing Djed Spence or Matt Doherty.