Moussa Sissoko joined Tottenham from Newcastle on deadline day.
France’s Moussa Sissoko and referee Mark Clattenburg
Moussa Sissoko has told FIFA.com that he understands his critics, but that he believes he is now in the right circumstances to flourish.
Sissoko was part of the Newcastle side which were relegated last season, but had a terrific Euro 2016, helping France reach the final.
This saw him eventually clinch a late deadline day move to Tottenham Hotspur, with The BBC reporting a fee of £30 million.
Newcastle’s Moussa Sissoko in action with Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen
Sissoko said that he gets why he has a lot to prove, but is using doubters to help motivate him.
He said: “I had a complicated season with Newcastle, with relegation at the end … So the critics, I understand them. I would say that they motivate me and push me to give more.”
Tottenham’s Moussa Sissoko waits to come on as a substitute
The midfielder went on to add that while moving late on deadline day had it’s drawbacks, meeting up with and gelling with his teammates late, it was difficult on him.
He added: “I went on holiday and everyone knew that I wanted to leave Newcastle to go to a more ambitious club that plays in the Champions League and at the top of the table. God thank you, I signed with Tottenham.
“I would have liked it to be resolved soon. I could rest a little anyway, but psychologically, it took my energy. Arriving late in the transfer window, it’s not the same, even if I had the chance to be welcomed and everything went well.”
Sissoko has now got what he wanted, and has retained his place in the France squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
He has recently played a role in Tottenham’s Champions League campaign, and helped them to a big Premier League win over Manchester City, and so far is looking like a success, even in light of the big price tag.
Tottenham’s Moussa Sissoko heads at goal
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