Tottenham Hotspur made some signings in the January transfer window to bolster their ranks, with mixed success so far.
Kevin Danso has been a revelation at Spurs, while Antonin Kinsky and Mathys Tel have shown promise but are yet to really impress.
Tel’s move to Tottenham was the big talking point of transfer deadline day as he performed a U-turn and joined Spurs on an initial loan deal.
The 19-year-old has made six appearances for Spurs and has netted once, though he’s yet to get off the mark in the league or Europa League.
Ange Postecoglou has now sent a message to Tottenham fans as he shared what his plans are for Tel.
Ange Postecoglou expects Mathys Tel to flourish at Tottenham as he hinted at wing role
Postecoglou, speaking to the press ahead of Sunday’s Bournemouth clash, said Tel has “done as well as he possibly can” considering the circumstances at N17.
The Tottenham manager backed Tel to flourish once the injury situation eases and once he can deploy the “exciting” Frenchman where he thinks he’ll be best – on the flanks.
“It’s fair to say we’ve put a lot on a very young player and introduced him to our league,” Postecoglou told reporters.
“I remember Lucas [Bergvall] was a similar one at the beginning of the year. He struggled a little bit in certain games, especially in Europe.
“He struggled a couple of times but over time we’ve seen him flourish.
“I’m sure once we can get Dom [Solanke[ back in and hopefully Richy [Richarlison] not too far in the future, we can use him in the way we want to.”
Postecoglou added: “I’m sure in between now and the end of the year people will see him and realise what a talent he is and my job is to make sure we protect him through that.”
And on the subject of Tel’s positioning, Postecoglou said: “Initially my view was that he would probably play in a wide area for us. Once Solanke was back I’m keen to try him out there.
“The first game he played out wide on the left, you can see he’s really comfortable there or out wide on the right. I think he’ll get more opportunities there.”
What Mathys Tel has said about his positions in the Tottenham team
Tel recently said he can play as a central striker and on either flank, but he is happy to go wherever Postecoglou wants him.
Tel said: “I can play in three positions, on the left side, right side and number nine. For me, my mentality is where the coach needs me, I’ll play.
“I just want to enjoy playing football and bring something for my team – so I can play anywhere no problem.”
