Emerson Royal has been speaking about his new position for Tottenham this week after Ryan Mason played him as a right-centre-back against Crystal Palace last time out.
Spurs have struggled to earn clean sheets since the return from the World Cup, a problem which ultimately cost both Antonio Conte and Cristian Stellini their jobs.
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However, Mason took the decision to drop Eric Dier last weekend and switched up the defensive tactics in order to see out a 1-0 win over the Eagles.
The young head coach named a back three of Clement Lenglet, Cristian Romero, and Emerson Royal, with the latter playing on the right side of a three instead of his usual right-wing-back.
Pedro Porro then served as a right-wing-back, while Ben Davies played as a left-back in a four when Spurs were out of possession, before springing into attack as a left-wing-back on the ball.
Speaking about the new system, Emerson told SPURSPLAY (via Football London): “Yes, for me, it’s very good, I’m used to playing in this position.
“But when we have the ball, I stay more inside like a centre-back on the right.
“So, for me it’s not difficult to do this position because I know how to play from the back.
“I can do this position, I’ve played like this in the national team. I felt very comfortable in this formation and I think we can achieve good things.”
He added: “I think I have something that can help. I have an aggressiveness, I have a leadership on the field, so when I’m in the game I try to do my best.
“I always get in or do whatever it takes to help the team. I think that’s been important.”
Spurs Web Opinion:
This tactical change really could be the making of Emerson Royal at Spurs. While many would have sold him six months ago, he could have a place in the squad as a utility player next season, especially if the likes of Davinson Sanchez and Japhet Tanganga leave the club.
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