Dennis Cirkin names Spurs pair he particularly looks up to after first-team bow

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Dennis Cirkin has told Tottenham Hotspur’s official website that Oliver Skipp and Japhet Tanganga are particular inspirations for him as he looks to make the grade with the first-team in North London.

Jose Mourinho has already hinted that the 18-year-old could be in his plans for the coming campaign. The defender was brought on during Spurs’ pre-season friendly against Ipswich Town at the weekend.

It was Cirkin’s first appearance for the senior side. And he will be hoping that a competitive debut for Tottenham is just around the corner.

Should he make that appearance, he will become the latest academy graduate to force their way into the first-team in recent years.

And following the game, Cirkin has suggested that making his way down a well-trodden path towards the first-team gives him all the motivation he could need.

“I look up to all the guys who have come through the Academy, especially Skippy, he’s been here for a long time as well,” he told the club’s official website.

“Japhet as well, he’s pushed on really well. They are all top professionals. It is possible, it’s just about getting a chance. Now, it’s about keeping going.”

Of course, it will be interesting to see whether Cirkin follows Skipp’s or Tanganga’s path now the pair have – temporarily – taken a different route.

Tanganga looks set to play an important role for Mourinho’s men this season. Meanwhile, Skipp has joined Norwich City on loan for the campaign.

Cirkin may soon have to make a decision of his own regarding whether his development would be best served by leaving on loan or by staying put and working closely with Mourinho.

But he will know that there are plenty of success stories to take inspiration from – whichever path he heads down in the coming years.