Tottenham: Conte ‘not the biggest fan’ of £26m star at Hotspur Way

Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte is ‘not the biggest fan’ of right wing-back Emerson Royal, which may make his run in the team a surprise to some supporters, according to journalist Paul Brown.

Royal has started every game for Spurs so far this season and appears to have established himself as his manager’s preferred option.

The Brazilian made the move to north London from Barcelona in the summer of 2021, beating Arsenal to the £26 million deal that will run until 2026.

His first season was an unconvincing one, but he remained a regular at right wing-back under both Nuno Espirito Santo and Conte, playing 44 times in all competitions.

After Djed Spence was signed from Middlesbrough in the summer for £20 million, Royal may have been concerned his place in the squad was in danger.

But he has retained his place, playing the majority of every game so far this season and contributing one assist.

Royal has previously said that he will sometimes ‘get mad’ with Conte in training due to the Italian’s high standards but added that the approach is good for his own progression.

Brown says that Royal has earned his place in the Tottenham side this season but adds that Conte is still not the biggest fan of the player.

The journalist believes that, the fact he has played every game so far this term, means he must be doing something right at Hotspur Way.

Brown told GIVEMESPORT: “It’s no secret that Conte is not the biggest fan of Emerson Royal, so to see him starting every week might be a surprise to some Spurs fans. But he must be doing something right.”

It has been an impressive start to the campaign for Conte’s men as they sit unbeaten in the Premier League with six matches played.

Richarlison signed for Spurs in the summer