Monday 1 August 2016 12:12, UK
Erik Lamela has denied rumours linking him with a move away from Tottenham, insisting he is focused on his future at the club.
The Argentina international, who joined Tottenham from Roma at the start of the 2013/14 season, has become an important figure in Spurs' transformation under manager Mauricio Pochettino, having initially struggled at White Hart Lane.
The club-record signing scored 10 goals and provided nine assists in all competitions last season to become a regular for Pochettino and has featured heavily in Spurs' pre-season tour of Australia.
Reports linked Lamela with a move to Marseille during last summer's transfer window, but the 24-year-old is used to speculation and is convinced Spurs is the right place for him to develop.
"Ever since I came to Tottenham I have always heard that I am supposed to be leaving," Lamela said. "It is the same every summer, I do not know why.
"From the beginning my focus has always been on Tottenham, even when things did not go as planned at the start."
Despite a frustrating finish to the season that saw Spurs' Premier League title challenge fall short, Lamela is eager to help improve the team this campaign.
"I have never wanted to leave or thought about leaving. I enjoy playing for the club and get on well with all the players, the staff and supporters," Lamela added.
"I feel a big connection with the club and especially the fans who have always supported me so much."
Tottenham take on Inter Milan in their final pre-season fixture on August 5 ahead of their Premier League opener against Everton at Goodison Park.
