Jose Mourinho praises Erik Lamela impact for Tottenham after lack of training

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Jose Mourinho has heaped praise on Erik Lamela for his efforts against RB Leipzig in the Champions League, after the player hadn’t trained in the build-up to the game, which finished 0-1 to the visitors.

The Argentine midfielder started on the bench on Wednesday, but was called upon by the Portuguese in the second half to replace Gedson Fernandes just after the hour mark.

Lamela’s inclusion in the squad and appearance was perhaps something of a surprise given he had been nursing a thigh injury since the start of the month.

The 27-year-old was unable to help Spurs find an equaliser, but his contributions did impress Mourinho.

He said after the game (beIN SPORTS): “We are speaking about players that couldn’t start the game. To have an idea, Lamela didn’t even train with the team once, not once. So a very difficult situation for us.

“We tried to manage to game the best we could – incredible spirit. People like Lucas, Lo Celso going to the limit, Lamela coming and trying to help the team the best he could and he was phenomenal.”

Spurs will get the chance to turn things around against the Bundesliga side on March 10, with four games to play before then.

TBR’s view – Tottenham need Lamela to stay fit now

Spurs really need Lamela to try and stay fit between now and the end of the season as he could be key.

With Heung-min Son and Harry Kane both out of the picture, it’ll be important for the likes of him to be ready and available to help the team.

Lamela has proven to be somewhat fragile over the years, but on his day he is a fantastic talent who also works hard off the ball, something that is surely valued highly by Mourinho.