When Antonio Conte arrived at Tottenham back in November, Matt Doherty was staring at the end of the tunnel – but with no light in sight. But over the last few weeks, the Ireland star has become crucial to Conte’s Tottenham.
Signed from Wolves in the summer of 2020, Doherty managed just 29 appearances in all competitions last season – playing in just 17 of his side’s 38 Premier League matches. This season, it had started in the same vein.
Indeed, Spurs signed Emerson Royal from Barcelona for a fee north of £20million. But Conte has been unconvinced by the Brazil international and of late, Doherty has become first choice as Tottenham’s right wing-back.
His performances have been excellent and with every minute under Conte, you can see the confidence is growing in his actions. His runs are more precise, his decision making, his execution of a cross or a pass.
Conte has performed well since arriving at Spurs, taking his side in with a shout of the top four. He has improved numerous players, Harry Kane’s form returning to what we all know the England captain is capable of.
Doherty miracle: Conte has rejuvenated Tottenham defender
Harry Winks has gone from bit-part player to a crucial rotation player. Ryan Sessegnon is now deemed first choice, before suffering an injury. The signings of Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevkski have been inspired.
But the biggest miracle of all, is turning Doherty from a player destined to be sold – to one of his side’s biggest attacking threats. Doherty laid on two assists last night – and now has four goal involvements in two outings.
The 3-4-3 system suits Doherty, but Conte has given him the confidence to show what he did at Wolves. Doherty has produced 14 key passes this season, as per WhoScored, but six have come in his last two league games.
What Conte has done with Doherty is incredible and while he was always capable of it, getting it out of him is a different story. He is Tottenham’s most-improved player under Conte, nothing short of a miracle.
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