Spurs manager eyeing reunion with slow-burning Liverpool star
Published:
Mauricio Pochettino is lining up a former favourite from his days in the Southampton dugout in order to aid Tottenham’s push for glory in 2016/17.
Adam Lallana flourished under Pochettino’s guidance at St. Mary’s before the Argentine and his skipper were plucked by supposedly bigger clubs in the summer of 2014.
But while his old boss has gone from strength to strength in the White Hart Lane hotseat, Lallana’s subsequent spell at Liverpool has incurred its fair share of down times and doubters, albeit his Anfield stock is arguably at its highest point heading into the Euros.
Poch had attempted to take Lallana to the Lane shortly after stepping into his post almost two years ago, only to see his ambitions thwarted by Liverpool’s £25m bid.
Through a mixture of niggling injuries and poor form, the player seen running the show for Saints the season prior failed quite publicly to live up to his billing over his initial 12 months at Anfield.
However, under Jurgen Klopp’s stewardship in 2015/16, the England midfielder has gradually repaired his reputation on Merseyside, culminating in an almost certain starting role in the Reds’ forthcoming Europa League final.
Klopp is clearly a big admirer of his player’s high-octane approach and abilities on the ball, but the Sun newspaper still suggest that the German isn’t convinced about a raft of his current squad.
A rumoured bid of £20m may yet be an offer which forces Liverpool and their manager to take note, even if the former Bournemouth youth-teamer crowns a much-improved season with a trophy.
From a personal standpoint, the St Albans native could be tempted to move back south if the Reds fail in their bid to secure the Champions League football now guaranteed under Pochettino at Spurs.
Given the ballooning effect an eye-catching display at a major tournament can have on a transfer fee, getting business done quickly could be preferable from Spurs’ perspective.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
