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Tottenham star Dele Alli shares potential reason why he has struggled this season

Dele Alli of Tottenham in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on November 18, 2017 in ...
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Tottenham Hotspur ace Dele Alli hasn’t had things all his own way this season.

Dele Alli of Tottenham during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Bournemouth at Wembley Stadium on October 14, 2017 in London, England.

Tottenham star Dele Alli sat down for an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, and admitted that he has found it tougher to find space this season, as opposition players have become more wary of his movement.

The 21-year-old has still managed to chalk up 10 goals and 16 assists in 42 appearances in all competitions, and it is perhaps a sign of his unbelievable quality that he has still drawn criticism from some sections of the media.

THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN CONVERTED TO BLACK & WHITE) Dele Alli of Tottenham is seen through the goal net during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Bournemouth at Wembley...

This term is Dele’s third season with Spurs, so it is no surprise to see that other players have become wise to his perfectly timed runs into the opposition’s penalty area.

The England international spoke exclusively to Sky Sports, and explained why the extra attention that he has received this season has benefitted his team as a result:

Dele Alli of Tottenham during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Bournemouth at Wembley Stadium on October 14, 2017 in London, England.

“The way people deal with me in games is different; there are a lot more tackles. I found myself in a lot of space last year, and now when I get in the box I feel people are a lot more concerned about me, and marking me. It’s a good thing, but when I run off the ball now, running in behind, whereas last year they may not have followed me as much they follow me a lot more now. I think it’s good, it gives other players the space. We have a great team, so to make space for other players is a good thing.”

With Harry Kane currently unavailable for selection, Dele will have even more pressure on his shoulders to perform, but he is the sort of player who thrives under that kind of environment.

Next up for Spurs is their huge clash with Chelsea tomorrow, and all eyes will be on the young Englishman once again, as his side look to win at Stamford Bridge for the first time in 28 years.