Pochettino hails Alli as ‘world’s best’ youngster

LONDON: Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has hailed Dele Alli as the best young player in the world as he rejigs his side to cope with the absence of the injured Harry Kane.

The 21-year-old Alli has been criticised for some inconsistent performances this season for a Spurs side chasing a top-four spot in the Premier League and in FA Cup quarter-final action this weekend.

Alli ended a 15-game goal drought when he scored in the 4-1 win at Bournemouth on Sunday and has been given a glowing endorsement by his boss.Pochettino said there is no other player in the world at Alli’s age who can match his achievements, despite the rival claims of the likes of Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Marcus Rashford.

While Alli’s displays have come under scrutiny from fans and the media, Pochettino said his opinion is the one that matters most. It is not clear whether Alli will feature in Tottenham’s FA Cup tie at Swansea on Saturday.

The midfielder was suffering with a tight groin after last week’s win but is fit and has been named in England’s squad for friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy. Kane has suffered lateral ligament damage in his right ankle and is expected to return to training next month.