Xavi claims he can understand why Dele Alli is being compared to Paul Gascoigne.
Barcelona legend Xavi has told The Mirror that he can understand why Tottenham star Dele Alli is being compared to former Spurs hero Paul Gascoigne.
Alli, 20, enjoyed a dream debut season in the Premier League last season, smashing ten goals and nine assists to fire Spurs to Champions League football, and even earn himself a starting spot in England’s Euro 2016 side.
The midfielder did endure something of a slow start to this season compared to his exploits last term, but his recent performances have been sensational, notching seven goals and one assist in his last seven matches.
Tottenham’s Dele Alli celebrates scoring
Alli appears to be on the path to stardom right now, and working under Mauricio Pochettino can only be good for him given how the Spurs boss has developed a number of other players over his career.
The former MK Dons prospect has even been compared to Paul Gascoigne by some, with Spurs hero Teddy Sheringham telling The Independent in 2016 that he could see similarities between Alli and the ex-Tottenham star.
Celtic’s James Forrest (L) and FC Barcelona’s Xavi in action
Gascoigne hit 33 goals in just 112 games for Spurs during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s before leaving for Lazio, and Alli’s goalscoring record of 21 goals in 71 is similarly impressive.
Now, Barcelona legend Xavi – who knows a thing or two about midfield play – has told The Mirror that he thinks Alli is ‘special’, and can understand the comparisons towards Gascoigne.
Xavi added that it’s important not to pile too much pressure on Alli, and thinks that the Spurs ace must continue to play well and perform on the big stages domestically and in Europe to reach the top level of the game.
“There are some very promising young English midfield players – and there is no doubt he is very special,” said Xavi of Alli. “He is very talented, very technical. I can understand why The Tottenham fans are hoping he is the next Paul Gascoigne.”
“For me, Gascoigne was an inspiration when I was developing, one of the best midfield players I have ever seen. It is important not to put pressure on Dele with these comparisons – but I can see why fans are excited.”
“For him to be at the very top level, he needs to consistently play well and put in big performances against the big clubs both in England in Europe. He has the capabilities to be able to do just that,” he added.
Do you think Alli is comparable to Gascoigne?
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