Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has admitted that he has been stunned by the transformation of Dele Alli.
The 23-year-old came in for heavy criticism from former footballers including Roy Keane, Gary Neville and Graeme Souness following his performance at Anfield in the defeat to Liverpool at the end of October (Sky Sports).
After struggling for consistency under Mauricio Pochettino this season, he has come to life under new head coach Jose Mourinho.
Dele has already scored three goals and provided an assist in the Portuguese’s first three matches in charge, including a brace at the weekend.
Mourinho revealed after the win against Bournemouth that he does not consider the England international as a midfielder and prefers to see him operate in a support role to Harry Kane (Guardian).
Both of Dele’s goals came from long balls from Toby Alderweireld at the heart of the Spurs defence.
Whelan believes that the introduction of Mourinho has given the former MK Dons man a new lease of life.
“Mourinho’s certainly getting the best out of Dele Alli,” Whelan told Football Insider.
“He had got a bit stale under Mauricio Pochettino, now he looks transformed.
“Mourinho’s done something to him, flicked a switch. Whether that’s psychologically or through tactical tweaks, there’s no doubt he’s a different player to the one a few weeks ago.
“I’m stunned it’s been such an instant change. He looks hungry, fresh, confident again.
“It’s nothing against Pochettino, but sometimes a player, even a top international, just needs a different voice to get them going again.”