Speaking in a pre-match press conference before Tottenham’s match against Europa League minnows Ludogorets, manager Jose Mourinho sent a subtle message to unseen Spurs ace Japhet Tanganga – who is yet to make a Premier League appearance this season.
Mourinho, before the encounter with Ludogorets, spoke of Toby Alderweireld’s injury and how it will impact Spurs going forward – with Tanganga being sent the message that he could feature more often in the Belgian’s absence.
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Spurs take on Chelsea at the weekend in what will be a crunch clash, with Mourinho looking to keep hold of his side’s place at the top of the Premier League.
Tanganga set to be called upon
Tanganga, who recently returned from injury himself, has been sent a subtle message by the Tottenham boss in regards to his place in the squad – with the youngster’s versatility potentially proving crucial in the coming weeks.
“For me he’s a full-back,” explained Mourinho to the media.
“Can he play centre-back? Yes he can, of course he can, and he will if we need and we will need.”
Transfer Tavern take
Indeed, as per this update, Spurs fans could be seeing far more of Tanganga with Alderweireld sidelined and Joe Rodon ineligible for the Europa League – with Mourinho now looking set to call upon the defensive ace after the ‘huge blow‘ of losing Alderweireld.
Tanganga has proved in the past he can cut it against the big boys, a prime example being his exceptional performance against Man City last season, where he drew comparisons with Raphael Varane.
It will be interesting to see just how much he is played over the coming weeks, but Mourinho may need him as difficult fixtures loom.
In other news: Jose Mourinho has also refused to rule out a Spurs return for this amazing ace, find out more here.
