Doherty rating: Irish media say Tottenham ace gave Dalot nightmares

Tottenham ace Matt Doherty starred for Ireland against Portugal – and Irish media say he gave defender Diego Dalot ‘nightmares’ in the 0-0 draw.

Wearing the no.10 shirt, 29-year-old Doherty was tasked with helping his country prevent Cristiano Ronaldo’s side from victory on Thursday night.

He did just that, producing a spectacular performance on a personal level – and Ireland as a team. Stephen Kenny’s side matched their opposition.

Not only did they stop Portugal from scoring, but they had plenty of possession and chances of their own. Doherty was excellent on the right.

Hard-working, combative and aggressive in the air – the £65,000-a-week (Spotrac) star was also comfortable and progressive with the ball at his feet.

The Irish Mirror gave their ratings, handing Doherty a 7/10. They say that £19m (BBC) Manchester United ace Dalot will have nightmares of Doherty.

“Hasn’t played much for Spurs but gave Dalot nightmares as he never stopped working,” The Mirror’s Paul O’Hehir wrote, on Thursday evening.

Irish media on Doherty: A reminder to Conte, as he overpowers Dalot?

There have been murmurs that Doherty, who had been struggling for game time under Nuno – might get his chance with Antonio Conte in charge.

Nuno did not use a three-man defence and wing-backs. But Conte has done, using a 3-4-3 system in both games against Vitesse and Everton.

Emerson Royal is of course, first choice. But given Doherty was so good as a right wing-back at Wolves, surely he deserves a chance under Conte?

Certainly, as a wing-back against Portugal, he produced a brilliant display. If Conte was watching, he will certainly have been impressed by Doherty.