Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte has praised Bryan Gil ahead of Spurs’ Premier League trip to Crystal Palace.
Alarm bells are ringing at N17 in wake of a poor return to action for Tottenham after the World Cup.
Spurs have picked up just one point from six since the Premier League resumed after Christmas.
In addition, Tottenham are still light in numbers up front, with Richarlison and Dejan Kulusevski doubts for the game.
Gil made his first Premier League start for Spurs last time out, against Villa.
The 21-year-old started on the right-hand side of Tottenham’s front line.
While Gil worked hard and showed some nice touches, he failed to make much of an impact for the Lilywhites.
However, Conte spoke highly of the Spaniard at Tottenham’s pre-match press conference on Tuesday.
The Italian, speaking to SPURSPLAY – via the Tottenham website – on Tuesday, began by providing an update on Kulusevski.
“He’s 50-50, we have a day and a half to make the right evaluation,” said the Spurs boss.
“For sure, it’s up to the player, the decision, because if his feeling is good, is positive, he can start to play.
“Otherwise, we won’t take a risk. Otherwise, it’s another chance for Bryan Gil.
“He is one of the young players that we are working on, a really good prospect, players who have a brilliant future.
“I’m talking Gil, Skippy, Pape Sarr, Spence, Sessegnon, also, Emerson is only 23, Harvey White, players who are growing.”
Gil needs time and patience – TBR View
It’s good to see Conte rally round behind a young player who had a difficult full Premier League debut for Spurs.
Gil showed some flashes of quality last season, before going on to dazzle on loan at Valencia.
Conte opted to keep Gil around at N17 this season, and now he’s getting his chance.
It’s not surprising for any young player to struggle initially in the Premier League, but he has plenty of time to learn, as well as having Conte’s support.
