Pochettino happy with Lamela commitment at Spurs

Mauricio Pochettino insists Erik Lamela is still fully committed to his career at White Hart Lane.

Lamela has been sidelined with a hip injury since October, with the manager previously raising concerns about his lack of progress.

But the Spurs boss believes the 24-year-old midfielder is still positive about his recovery despite rumours of a move back to former clubs Roma or River Plate.

“We were joking that there were some rumours about him going back to River,” said Pochettino, who saw his side move second in the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday.

“I asked him if he wanted to go back and he said ‘I want to play here, I want to play in Tottenham, I want to play for this club, I want to be in England and I want to play football’.

(Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

“All negative things you can turn positive and for me that is key. It’s true that we were talking this morning and he was very positive.

“Now he is very focused on his recovery and to be available as soon as possible.

“That is a massive improvement and a big power because you are capable of all if you believe and you are focused on recovering from your problem.”