Emerson Royal has been speaking about his new position for Tottenham this week after Ryan Mason played him as a right-centre-back against Crystal Palace last time out.
Spurs have struggled to earn clean sheets since the return from the World Cup, a problem which ultimately cost both Antonio Conte and Cristian Stellini their jobs.
However, Mason took the decision to drop Eric Dier last weekend and switched up the defensive tactics in order to see out a 1-0 win over the Eagles.
The young head coach named a back three of Clement Lenglet, Cristian Romero, and Emerson Royal, with the latter playing on the right side of a three instead of his usual right-wing-back.
Pedro Porro then served as a right-wing-back, while Ben Davies played as a left-back in a four when Spurs were out of possession, before springing into attack as a left-wing-back on the ball.
Speaking about the new system, Emerson told SPURSPLAY (via Football London): “Yes, for me, it’s very good, I’m used to playing in this position.
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“But when we have the ball, I stay more inside like a centre-back on the right.
“So, for me it’s not difficult to do this position because I know how to play from the back.
“I can do this position, I’ve played like this in the national team. I felt very comfortable in this formation and I think we can achieve good things.”
He added: “I think I have something that can help. I have an aggressiveness, I have a leadership on the field, so when I’m in the game I try to do my best.
“I always get in or do whatever it takes to help the team. I think that’s been important.”
Spurs Web Opinion:
This tactical change really could be the making of Emerson Royal at Spurs. While many would have sold him six months ago, he could have a place in the squad as a utility player next season, especially if the likes of Davinson Sanchez and Japhet Tanganga leave the club.
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