‘Nothing but respect’: Sky pundit lauds Tottenham man’s rise after Sunday’s display

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Mick McCarthy has hailed Tottenham defender Matt Doherty on Sky Sports (11/10/20 at 1:30 pm start) after he played at centre-back for his country on international duty.

The 28-year-old helped the Republic of Ireland record a clean sheet during their goalless draw against Wales and McCarthy lauded the Spurs man for just slotting in and not complaining.

During his time at Wolves, Doherty has shown he has the versatility to his game because he has also been used as a left-back – well, he’s added another string to his bow.

McCarthy, who coached Doherty during his days as Republic of Ireland boss, shared that he has nothing but respect for the Spurs defender because of how he has risen as a ‘player’ over the years.

“Just that consistent and really good player that he’s been,” McCarthy told Sky Sports. “He went out on loan to lower league clubs and then he got back into the Wolves team when they were in the first division.

“And he has now played lots of games in the Premier League. He’s been brilliant. Then gets his move to Spurs. He has made himself a player, along with his coaches. But having gone out on loan and done what he has done.

“I have nothing but respect for Matt Doherty for what he’s done. He played at left-back for a long time and he’s just slotted in at centre-back. No remonstrations. No complaining. Just go and play there.”

Doherty playing at centre-back will be music to the ears of Jose Mourinho because he likes defensive players who have the versatility to their game.

Eric Dier has been used as a number six under Mourinho but has since been frequently played at the heart of the club’s defence.

But Mourinho is now aware that if injuries occur and he needs someone else to slot in at the back then Doherty is his go-to man.