Former Tottenham midfielder Paulinho made a return to England... but did he manage to prove a point?
Paulinho made his big return to London yesterday, two years after being ditched by Tottenham Hotspur.
The Brazilian was a £17 million flop bought with the Gareth Bale money, and failed to convince after playing under three Tottenham managers.
Now 29, his career is enjoying a second wind after playing for two years in the backwaters of the Chinese Premier League.
He maintained selection for Brazil during this time, and earned an unlikely move to Barcelona this summer.
Last night he was in action for Brazil at Wembley against England, taking on former Tottenham teammate Eric Dier at the stadium now used by his old club as a temporary home.
Paulinho had a bit more confidence upon his return than when he left, but his reintroduction to English football could not really be classed as triumphant.
He wasn't terrible, but he did not stand out either in a disappointing friendly between two teams who played cagily.
The Barcelona ace tried to push forward and link up with Coutinho, Gabriel Jesus and Neymar, but to no effect, while heading an effort over the bar.
Tottenham fans were intrigued and surprised to get another look at him, but were not left feeling much has changed...
Paulinho is still dross, i see. Who does he have compromising pictures of, you wonder? #thfc #coys
— Rob Davies (@ByRobDavies) November 14, 2017
Good to see Paulinho is still utter rubbish. Anyone know what the point of him is?
— Allspurs (@all_spurs) November 14, 2017
This Paulinho chap looks quality so far. One to keep an eye I’d say...
— Colin Wright (@colinwright1959) November 14, 2017
Paulinho has cost a combined £70 million... #coys #thfc #ENGBRA #england pic.twitter.com/dfAswkm7a8
— COYS Report (@COYSReport) November 14, 2017
Core, just seen the Eriksen goal. Watching Paulinho now makes me realise how far spurs have come
— Richard Holmes (@richolmestwit) November 14, 2017
That's the Paulinho Spurs fans know and (didn't) love...
— Rowland Marsh (@Marshland82) November 14, 2017
Hands up if you ever thought you'd see Paulinho play at our home ground again!
— Dave (@LightySpurs) November 14, 2017
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