Mauricio Pochettino eulogises of Erik Lamela's wondrous allure
Star: Erik Lamela celebrates his spectacular winner over Burnley in the Premier League
In his halting English, Mauricio Pochettino put it best. Tottenham had hardly been on top form, had hardly built upon their Capital One Cup obliteration of Newcastle United. Ashley Barnes's spectacular strike had mesmerised White Hart Lane, as grumblings of discontent surfaced, suggesting Tottenham had not turned the corner yet. They may not have, but Erik Lamela, it seems, has.
The alarm bells should have rung for Ben Mee, Burnley's disinclined left fullback. The Argentine teased Mee, forcing the defender to retreat. He dabbed nimbly at the ball, inspiring apprehension within the Burnley resistance. Lamela swivelled, noticing an opening, and unleashed a vicious, swerving strike from 25 yards
It was what the Argentine had been waiting for, his first Premier League goal this season. It was scrumptious, perhaps the moment to unleash the potential and promise of 'Coco' which had enticed Andre Villas Boas to dispense £32 million in demand for his services. "It is very important," smiled his manager, "He is happy".
New-found confidence
Such a display of raw talent from the Argentine mere months ago seemed improbable. He had languished to acclimatise to the unique adversities posed by the Premier League, to contend with Andre Villas Boas's tinkering and the expectation which entailed representing Tottenham's most lofty purchase.
By the time of his arrival, Lamela was regular for Argentina, spearheading the South Americans' offence alongside the luminous likes of Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez.
Even in the Eternal City, the words of Francesco Totti are revered and cherished. The Italian, as Lamela enforced himself as an offensive midfielder boasting promise of gargantuan proportions, expressed his desire that Lamela would develop into his "heir". Roma director of sport Walter Sabatini employed his extensive contacts in South America to orchestrate Lamela’s transfer from a relegated River Plate. A glamorous reference which Lamela must now satisfy.
Rejuvenation
Lamela had only started a mere nine matches last season but has shown signs of rejuvenation under the unerring faith of Pochettino. There have been moments of genius this season which had embodied his potential, skill and technique of the grandest order. His remarkable rabona goal in the Europa League against Asteras Tripolis stands testament to his new-found sanguinity. A display of such audacity and ambition seemed improbable as he struggled to adapt.
The winner at White Hart Lane, though, is a special highlight, a goal of spectacular technique and accuracy. He harried the Burnley defence, posing a prominent menace throughout on the right channel, prone to exploiting Burnley’s disinclination as he relentlessly cut in with his left football. Echoes of Gareth Bale.
A general sense, however, exists at Tottenham which implies Lamela is yet to unlock his full potential. The Argentine shone to fame in Argentina, with Buenos Aires, for his trademark direct running, skill and audacity, attributes showcased in a limited manner in the Premier League. There is the belief that Lamela will nurture into an incredible prospect too
For Lamela, there is added motivation. Following a debut season beset by injury, the winger suffered World Cup heartache, omitted from Alejandro Sabella’s Argentina squad which advanced to the final. He is determined to restore his place, his national pride. And whilst doing so, mesmerising Pochettino with his wondrous allure.