Tottenham player admits he has gone through a ‘very difficult’ time under Conte

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Tottenham star Lucas Moura has told his club’s official website that he has endured a “very difficult” time and he is still not “100%” after a calf injury that kept him sidelined for two months. But he is delighted to be back playing football.

The 30-year-old winger was finally given his first start of the season on Wednesday night. While he looked “rusty”, according to Jermaine Jenas, he lasted 82 minutes as Spurs drew 1-1. A game, that Spurs came so close to winning.

Harry Kane’s goal deep into injury time, was ruled out after a lengthy VAR check. But for Lucas, it will have been a feeling he has been waiting to achieve for two months. With Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison out, he is needed.

Speaking to Tottenham’s website, Lucas underlined his delight at coming back from injury. He reflected on his spell on the sidelined, admitting it has been “very difficult”, but says more game time will get him back to 100%.

“It has been a difficult time for me, two months out, not easy. I love playing football, I love playing for Tottenham so, for me, being out has been very, very difficult,” Lucas said, when discussing his time out injured, and his return.

“We know sometimes it happens in our careers and we have to be strong in our minds. Now, I’m happy to be back. I feel good. I’m not 100 per cent, but I’ll reach my best level if I get more game time.”

Tottenham star Lucas has endured ‘very difficult’ time this season

Unfortunately for Lucas, his game time might not get back to the level he has previously experienced at Tottenham. Under Jose Mourinho, he was a regular alongside Harry Kane and Son Heung-min. But Spurs are stronger in depth.

When Richarlison and Dejan Kulusevski return from injury, Lucas will find that he is back on the bench. As he did, at the start of the season. An unused sub against Wolves, managing late outings against Chelsea and Southampton.

But while the duo are out, he will be desperate to get his chance and show Conte why he deserves to be given a run in the side. On Saturday, Spurs take on Bournemouth away from home and he could start a second consecutive game.