Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho picked out midfielder Dele Alli for special praise following his side’s win over Brighton, while also hailing the attitude of unused substitute Erik Lamela.
Spurs continued their impeccable Boxing Day Record by going 14 games unbeaten in games played on the day with a 2-1 comeback win over Brighton in North London.
Adam Webster headed home to give the Seagulls the lead in the first half, but goals from Harry Kane and Dele Alli secured all three points for the hosts in a much better second-half performance.
Speaking to Amazon Prime after the game, Mourinho was also quick to praise his whole team’s commitment to the game.
“I am very happy with the second half. We changed our width – it’s not about the players but little things that can make a difference,” the manager said.
“The first half was not a disaster. It was not a bad performance – it was a difficult game against a good team and after a defeat it’s never easy.
“Then when you don’t start well it always affects self-esteem.”
On Alli – who continued his revival under his new coach, Mourinho said: “Another goal and another incredible effort and performance from first minute to last.
“His work rate was absolutely incredible so for me these little big details are more important than what people initially see. Amazing goal, I go to two other small details.
“His attitude, his fighting spirit for the team was awesome.”
Mourinho was also asked about the influence of Lucas Moura, saying: “It’s difficult to go just on Lucas. I would go in the direction of a playwe that didn’t play – Erik Lamela.
“He had almost six days without the team, he trained with the team only twice and he told me ‘I’m available if you need me for 10-15 minutes’ so I go in the direction of the boy’s spirit.”
Spurs‘ next games see them face Norwich on Saturday before playing Arsenal on New Years’ Day.
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