Michael Dawson reacts to Japhet Tanganga display in Spurs win

Add as preferred source on Google

Michael Dawson has told Sky Sports (broadcast on 15/8; 19:12) that Japhet Tanganga is everything a manager wants as he labelled the defender’s display in Spurs’ win over Manchester City magnificent.

Tottenham have made a winning start to life under Nuno Espirito Santo. They produced a stunning performance to beat the champions 1-0.

Son Heung-min got the only goal. But the star of the show for many will have been Tanganga.

The 22-year-old was exceptional up against the likes of Raheem Sterling and Jack Grealish down City’s left flank.

He seemed to be rarely beaten by either man. And he read the game superbly before he was replaced by Matt Doherty in the latter stages.

He was named man of the match. And Dawson insisted that he more than deserved that accolade after such an incredible contribution.

“He was magnificent,” he told Sky Sports (broadcast on 15/8; 19:12). “Gary [Neville] gave him man of the match. And you talk about Nuno putting his stamp on him, he could have quite easily gone senior in Aurier, Matt Doherty.

“He went with Japhet Tanganga. He’s honest, he lives a stone’s throw away from the stadium, he’s one of their own and he gives everything. He epitomises everything a manager wants. Strong, physical, everything.”

Spurs have transfer decision made for them with Tanganga display against Manchester City

It almost seems remarkable to think that Tanganga was linked with a move away from Spurs this summer.

Galatasaray reportedly had a loan bid accepted. But the Turkish club had to wait for the youngster to make a decision.

With that display however, it is hard to imagine Spurs now have any interest in letting him go.

Of course, there may be times when Tanganga is less influential. He is still a young player. And he may make mistakes.

But on that evidence, he is going to be a huge player for Nuno’s side this season. And with that, Tottenham cannot consider letting him leave.