Antonio Conte's midfielder already praised as a 'top player in the world' after Tottenham exit

Giovani Lo Celso made his first start for Villarreal and has already received praise from one of his new teammates.

Lo Celso made the temporary move to the Spanish club during the January transfer window and arrived after his international duty with Argentina.

The 25-year-old had made 19 appearances for Tottenham so far this season, getting a goal and registering an assist in the Europa Conference League.

However he had struggled to get regular game time and when he was given the opportunity, failed to consistently impress, which has been a disappointment as he performs so well for his country.

Lo Celso was one of three Spurs players to make a loan move on deadline day, with Bryan Gil moving to Valencia and Tanguy Ndombele returning to Lyon.

After the closing of the January window, Antonio Conte was asked about the departures.

"About the players that went on loan, they need to play more games," he admitted. "I think it was right for both sides, the club and the players. These players needed to play more games.

"For sure, it was strange. It was strange to send on loan, and sell one player [Dele Alli], in the January transfer window."

Villarreal are currently fifth in La Liga, just two points off fourth place Barcelona and Lo Celso got his first start for his new side when they drew 0-0 against Real Madrid.

Before that, the midfielder made his debut for Unai Emery's side when he came on for the final 13 minutes of the 2-0 victory over Real Betis, receiving a welcoming applause from the Villarreal fans.

Emery, who Lo Celso has worked with before, praised the Argentine before he played his first minutes for his new side.

"Giovani is a player I know, because I had him at PSG," Emery admitted. "At Betis, he was great and that