Tottenham Hotspur’s Dele Alli was booked for diving during Mauricio Pochettino’s side’s last match.
Alli has always had a fiery streak in his game since arriving at Spurs, and despite a great deal of scrutiny, he has never kicked his controversial side.
Alli was booked for the third time for diving during Tottenham’s match against Liverpool.
But Pochettino insists that Alli’s tendency to try and win free-kicks is not a big deal.
He said: “I think it’s a minimal issue. Dele is not perfect. Nobody is perfect. He is a clever boy. He is a little bit nasty. Football is a creative sport in which you need the talent that grows in a very intelligent person, a very smart brain.
“But the problem today is that, more than this type of situation, I am worried we are going to change the game we know.”
Alli has faced criticism for his attitude this season, with the England international failing to hit top form.
However, Alli did manage to play a key role as Spurs picked up a 2-2 draw with Liverpool in their most recent fixture.
Spurs’ draw with Jurgen Klopp’s side was vital for their top four chances, as it kept them in touching distance with the rest of the Champions League chasers.
Tottenham are next in action when they take on Newport County later this evening, but Alli is likely to be rested for the contest.
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