Mauricio Pochettino reckons Alli is the best 21-year-old in the world, but Keane disagrees.
Manchester United legend Roy Keane has told ITV Sport that Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli must concentrate on his performances on the pitch, instead of off-the-field distractions.
The 21-year-old has been criticised for suffering a drop in form this season, after shining in the Premier League last term with 22 goals in all competitions. This season, he has only 10.
However, Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino was staunch in his defence of the England international on Thursday afternoon, stating that there is no better 21-year-old than Alli in world football.
Keane responded to those comments, stating that Pochettino’s claim was over the top and urged the former MK Dons midfielder to focus on his displays rather than doing more off the pitch.
“A slight exaggeration, I think the kid has still got a lot to do, potential is there but plenty to improve on,” Keane said, responding to Pochettino’s comments that Alli is the best 21-year-old in the world.
“A plateau in form can happen to these young players but I worry what he’s doing off the pitch. I see him doing a lot of commercial stuff, I don’t think these kids focus on what you’re doing on the football pitch.”
This season, Alli has still managed to reach double figures as well as laying on a huge 16 assists for his teammates as Spurs go in search of a first trophy under Pochettino.
However, he may not feature against Swansea City on Saturday afternoon in the FA Cup quarter-finals as he faces a late fitness test to prove he can play. He picked up a knock against the thigh at Bournemouth last weekend.
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