‘There’s no way’: Hoddle says Spurs player tried something in the 17th minute he wouldn’t dare do a month ago

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For Tottenham, it was a case of just getting three points on the board today as they battled to a 1-0 win over Burnley in North London.

A controversial penalty, tucked away expertly by Harry Kane, was enough for Spurs to run out winners in the end and put the pressure firmly back on Arsenal in the top four race. Kane’s calmness from the spot was needed as well, with Clarets stopper, Nick Pope, in determined form in the Burnley goal.

In fairness to Tottenham, they did try and get in on goal as well. Pope kept a few shots out, while Spurs also tried the odd pot shot from range, one of which came from Emerson Royal. The Brazilian unleashed a fine effort in the 17th minute which Pope was forced to tip over. And watching on commentary for BT Sport, former Spurs man Glenn Hoddle believed it showed the confidence Royal has gained in recent weeks.

‘It’s a good effort from Emerson in the end, and Pope can’t be too careful and just has to tip it over. It’s a sign of his increasing confidence anyway. A month or so ago, there’s no way he would have tried that and it’s got his team another corner,” Hoddle said on co-comms for BT Sport.

Royal has come under fire at times for his performances this season. Indeed, there’s even been talk of him being sold this summer, just a year after signing.

TBR’s View: Emerson Royal Doing Just Enough For Tottenham Right Now

There are clearly flaws in Royal’s game which needed ironing out and working out. However, you have to say in recent weeks he has done the business for Spurs.

Sure, his final product could be better and defensively he can switch off. But he is clearly doing what Conte is asking of him to the best of his ability, and the effort is there from Royal as well.

Hoddle’s comment on his shot showing his confidence today is a good one. He’s right, too, as there’s simply no way Royal tries that a few weeks ago.