Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Harry Winks has been used as a substitute this season.
Winks missed a lot of last season with injury, but he has broken back into Spurs’ squad of late.
The England international’s showings have all come from the bench so far this season, but Pochettino insists that the youngster is closing in on a return to the starting line-up.
“He is close because I am happy with him,” Pochettino said. “The last two weeks was fantastic for him, he was training so hard and I am so happy with his evolution. He is so close.”
When Winks broke through at Spurs he enjoyed a brilliant first few months in the starting line-up, before injury curtailed his progress.
The technically able central midfielder was so impressive that he earned international honours, and was even tipped to earn a World Cup place.
Winks still has plenty of competition for a place in Spurs’ line-up, but he adds depth to Pochettino’s midfield options.
Tottenham are set to take on Liverpool at the weekend, in what looks like a huge match, although it is doubtful whether Winks will get the nod in that clash.
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