Tottenham Hotspur benched Lucas Moura for the Champions League final.
Tottenham Hotspur attacker Lucas Moura has commented on being left out of the Champions League final starting line up.
The Brazilian spoke to French newspaper Le Figaro about his role after the team’s 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.
Lucas was left out in favour of striker Harry Kane, in a gamble which did not pay off for Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino.
Moura said: “I was very, very sad. It’s normal, I wanted to win. I really thought it was possible. I am sad but very proud of my teammates, my team. I think we had a wonderful season. It was not easy to reach the final.
“Of course I wanted to start but it’s the coach’s decision. He must choose a starting eleven, I must respect it.
“Most importantly, I was ready to play. I was on the bench thinking about what I could do to help the team. When I entered, I tried to do the best but it was not possible. It’s football, you have to respect the coach.”
Lucas definitely brightened Tottenham’s attack up after he came on, but he didn’t have long enough to break Liverpool down.
It’s easy to second guess Pochettino’s decision now, but the manager has got plenty right this season, and had his reasons for making the call he did.
Tottenham’s task was not made easy by the club conceding a penalty after just one minute.
Lucas did himself proud this season, and he has a lot to build upon for next season. Becoming a regular starter must be his aim.
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