Ben Davies has told Tottenham Hotspur’s website that Emerson Royal was “outstanding” against Manchester City, using the Brazilian as an example after Spurs were given a “kick up the backside” following a recent run of form.
Spurs have won three games on the bounce, keeping clean sheets in all three against Fulham, Preston and then on Sunday, Manchester City. It came after three defeats in their previous five, conceding eight goals in those games.
The two League wins, and victory over Championship side Preston in the FA Cup has returned the feel-good factor. Spurs sit in fifth place but with Newcastle stuttering and Manchester United suffering injuries, there is a real chance.
Four big games are next up for Davies, Royal and co. A trip to Leicester this weekend, before next week’s Champions League clash against Milan in Italy. Then, two London derbies against West Ham and then Chelsea – both at home.
Royal might have been forgiven for feeling the pressure against City, after the club brought in Pedro Porro. But, he is arguably in his best form since joining Spurs from Barcelona. Davies heaped praise on him after the win over City.
Davies: Tottenham star Royal was outstanding against Manchester City
“We had a bit of a rude awakening after our last eight games or so where we were on a bad run, conceding a lot of goals and we needed to get better. It was a bit of a kick up the backside,” Davies told Tottenham’s website.
“We’re now back in a good rhythm and that performance shows the togetherness we have, for instance, Emerson made some outstanding headers at the back post, he was excellent. That’s the spirit and the mindset we need to have.”
Royal’s string of good form comes after being re-inserted into Tottenham’s side in the 4-2 loss against Manchester City. He scored in that game and while Spurs lost, it has almost acted as a spring board for the Brazil international.
He was one of the best players on the pitch against Fulham in the 1-0 win. Harry Kane received the plaudits in that match, and then again against City on Sunday – given he equalled, and then broke Jimmy Greaves’ goal record.
But Royal churned out two of his best performances in a Spurs shirt. He kept Jack Grealish largely quiet on Sunday, and defended well with City piling on the pressure from the right. It could see him continue to start over newbie Porro.
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