Robinson admits he ‘was very surprised’ to see 28-year-old start against West Brom

Paul Robinson has revealed that he was left surprised to see Jose Mourinho hand Erik Lamela a start against West Brom on Sunday but admitted that the Argentine put in an impressive display.

Lamela is now one of the longest-serving members of the first-team squad at Spurs, having arrived from Roma in the summer of 2013.

The attacking midfielder has arguably not managed to fulfil his potential during his time at Tottenham due to his injury woes but he has always played a vital role when he has been fit.

The 28-year-old started in the number ten role against West Brom and not only pressed the Baggies defenders tirelessly but also helped pull the opposition defenders out of position when he got on the ball by looking to play quick interchanges.

Lamela earned Mourinho’s praise after the game and Robinson admitted that the midfielder’s performance vindicated the Spurs boss’ decision to hand him a start on Sunday.

The former Tottenham number one told Football Insider: “I was very surprised to see him selected for the West Brom game.

“When you look at the players Spurs have in forward areas, the likes of Gareth Bale, you think Lamela may struggle for game time.

“There has been talk about his future this year but he showed once again why he is a very valued member of the squad ahead of the Everton match.

“You know what you are going to get from him, hard work and creativity. He brings a real attacking impetus to the side. I thought he was brilliant at the weekend.

“It was a better Spurs performance but a poor game. It was like a training ground game but you can only beat what is in front of you.

“West Brom were on damage limitation. Spurs had to unlock the door though and Lamela was a big part of that. He did very, very well.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Lamela has tended to divide opinion among the Spurs fan base but I have always believed that he could be an important squad player for us. On top of his obvious qualities as a player, the Argentine always gives his all whether he starts or comes on as a substitute and I am not surprised that Mourinho seems to have a soft spot for him.

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