Former Arsenal midfielder Jermaine Pennant has defended Dele Alli following yesterday’s match against Liverpool.
The Tottenham Hotspur midfielder was named in Mauricio Pochettino’s starting eleven for the 2-1 loss at Anfield where he played on the left as part of an attacking midfield trio behind Harry Kane along with Christian Eriksen and Heung-min Son.
Dele came in for heavy criticism from the Sky Sports punditry panel following the game with Roy Keane, Graeme Souness and Gary Neville all giving their opinion.
With the 23-year-old having suffered four left hamstring strains in the past two years (Guardian), Pennant claimed that it can take time for a player to return to their best form.
While Pennant admitted that the England international did not look his usual mobile self, he claimed that the criticism Dele has received is harsh given the fact he was playing out of position and is more suited to playing directly behind Kane in the number ten role.
Pennant also pointed his finger in the direction of Harry Kane, who he believes despite having scored the opening goal at Anfield, was poor throughout the match.
"To get the stick he's getting is harsh." 👎
"A recurring hamstring injury means it's going to wear down."
"His best position is behind Harry Kane as a number 10." 🔟@Pennant83 defends Dele Alli. ⚪️
Is criticism of Dele harsh? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/SwhyhTWAVe
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) October 28, 2019
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