Erik Lamela still wants to play for Tottenham, insists manager Mauricio Pochettino
Saturday 4 February 2017 10:04, UK
Mauricio Pochettino insists Erik Lamela is committed to playing for Tottenham and says the Argentine's hip injury is improving.
The 24-year-old has not played for the club since October because of the hip problem and Pochettino admitted last month they were becoming concerned about the his mindset.
Lamela is also the only first-team player not to renew his contract since joining the club - his current deal is set to expire in 2019 - and reports have emerged linking him with returns to former clubs Roma or River Plate.
However, Pochettino says his compatriot is settled in England and is only thinking about his recovery.
Pochettino said: "We were joking that there were some rumours about him going back to River.
"I asked him if he wanted to go back and he said 'I want to play here, I want to play in Tottenham, I want to play for this club, I want to be in England and I want to play football'.
"All negative things you can turn positive and for me that is key. It's true that we were talking this morning and he was very positive.
"Now he is very focused on his recovery and to be available as soon as possible. That is a massive improvement and a big power because you are capable of all if you believe and you are focused on recovering from your problem."
