Emerson Royal has described his performance against Manchester City last month as the “turning point” in his Tottenham career.
The Brazilian had struggled to wholly convince following a move from Barcelona in the summer of 2021 and battled with Matt Doherty for a starting berth last season.
Royal, however, has established himself as something of a first-choice at Spurs this season, with Doherty leaving to join Atletico Madrid in January.
While Spurs did bring in Pedro Porro during the transfer window, Royal’s form has meant the Spanish international has largely been forced to wait on the sidelines.
The 24-year-old then scored against West Ham before a slight injury allowed Porro into the team for Saturday’s defeat at Wolves.
Still, such has been the level of his recent form, Royal will surely push the new signing all the way once fully fit again.
Speaking to Spurs’ official website, Royal spoke of how important his marking of City winger Jack Grealish during last month’s win over the champions was in helping turn things around.
“Yes, definitely (it was a turning point),” he said.
“It was a huge game at home in front of our fans just after we played at their place - where I scored - and unfortunately lost.
“I’d say, after that away match, something clicked for me, and people started to speak positively about me again.
“You could see that at home, the team had the support from the fans, and they showed their confidence in me.”
