Emerson Royal now being pushed towards Tottenham exit – TBR View

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After months of issues in the right wing-back spot, Tottenham Hotspur now have a clear first-choice emerging with Matt Doherty leaving Emerson Royal behind in the pecking order.

Royal was signed in the summer as the long-term answer to the problems Spurs had had in that area of the field. His arrival came after Doherty endured a torrid first season in North London.

Unfortunately, Royal has rarely looked like the answer for Tottenham. The Brazilian has only shown glimpses of his quality. And reports have even claimed that Barcelona cannot believe that they received £25.8 million for the 23-year-old.

With Doherty as his main rival however, it did appear that Royal would have the time to turn his fortunes around at Tottenham.

And with the summer starting to emerge on the horizon, it would indeed appear that Tottenham do now have one right-back pushing another closer to the exit.

But, following their 5-0 win over Everton, it is Royal who is in in danger of needing a move away.

Doherty pushes Royal closer to exit with display in Tottenham win

The Irishman was outrageously good against the Toffees. He now has three assists and one goal in his last two Premier League appearances.

In truth, he has never been better for Tottenham than he was against Frank Lampard’s side.

Doherty made more key passes and tackles than any other Tottenham player in the win, according to Whoscored. It was a performance that could prove to be a real turning point for him.

And with that, Royal is surely facing an uncertain future this summer. Alasdair Gold previously suggested that he would not be shocked if the youngster left should Conte stay into next season.

In fairness, Doherty’s remarkable improvement highlights that it is too soon to write Royal off at Tottenham. He was labelled ‘amazing‘ after one performance earlier this season.

But if Royal was already facing a fight to save his Tottenham future, Doherty’s incredible performance against Everton will have only pushed him closer to the exit.