Cristian Stellini has told Friday’s press conference – as per Football London – that Alfie Devine is now “100%” a first-team player at Tottenham and trains with the senior side everyday, claiming Devine has the “power in his mind”.
Devine, 18, clocked up his second senior outing for Spurs since joining the club from Wigan in January, coming off the bench in the win over Portsmouth in the FA Cup. He was on the bench for the loss to Italian champions Milan.
The playmaker has been a regular for the 21’s but he is edging closer to more game time at Spurs. In 42 games for the Under-21 side at Spurs, he has scored 12 goals from midfield and laid on four assists. An England U19 regular.
Stellini was asked about Devine in Friday’s press conference as Spurs prepare to play against Chelsea this weekend. He said that Devine is definitely a part of the first team now, and praised the teenager for having a mental power.
“Devine is part of the squad completely 100%. He trains every day with us. Sometime we let him go to play with the U21s because he needs to play. He is a young player and we want him to feel ready to play a game,” Stellini said.
“If you don’t live the possibility to play a match, you lose the power. Young players need to play many, many games. He has the quality, he has power in his mind. Mentally he is a good player as he trains every day at our level.”
Cristian Stellini: Alfie Devine now 100% a first-team player at Tottenham
A big boost of confidence from Stellini, handing Devine the knowledge that he is in the mix. Especially, with Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur injured. Spurs have Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Oliver Skipp and Pape Sarr as cover.
But if one of those picks up a knock, then it might be the likes of Devine or defensive midfielder Matt Craig could come in. Both have impressed for the 21’s, and in the UEFA Youth League. Devine might be on the bench on Sunday.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
