Antonio Conte has backed Clement Lenglet to get his career back on track this season on the back of a difficult couple of years at Barcelona.
Lenglet’s arrival on loan has not excited Spurs fans as much as some of the club’s other summer additions, particularly given the speculation linking the Lilywhites with the likes of Alessandro Bastoni and Josko Gvardiol earlier in the summer (Football.London).
The Frenchman has been guilty of defensive errors over the last couple of years at the Camp Nou and found himself falling out of favour with Xavi Hernandez last season.
However, Conte believes the 27-year-old’s experience will help the Tottenham squad and that playing in a back three will suit the centre-back.
The Tottenham boss told Spurs TV about Lenglet: “In the last two years, he didn’t play with the right continuity but for sure he can give us a lot of experience and personality.
“He’s good quality and then also I think with the three defenders he can give us more than to play with four at the back.”
Conte also expressed his delight that the club were able to sign Fraser Forster to replace Pierluigi Gollini, stating that the goalkeeper has the right personality to be the number two.
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He said on Forster: “I knew him. He’s a good guy… It’s a particular role and you need to have a very positive second keeper all the season. We made the best choice for us.”
The Italian also raved about the qualities of Ivan Perisic, who was a key part of his title-winning side at Inter during the 2020/21 campaign.
The 52-year-old said about the Croat: “I know him very well. For sure, we are talking about a player who won a lot in the past. He played in important leagues – in Germany, and in Italy.
“He also played in the World Cup final. We are talking about a really good player. Strong physically, good quality with both feet and he can give us a lot. I think he is a good signing for us.”
Spurs Web Opinion
While Lenglet has struggled during the last 12 months at Barca, there is no reason why the Frenchman cannot be a good player for us.
His confidence was clearly shot to pieces at Barca and a fresh start at Spurs may be exactly what he needs.
Conte also provides a lot of role clarity for his players, which could eliminate some of Lenglet’s poor decision-making.
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