Tottenham left back Destiny Udogie was honest about his role on the pitch in North London and suggested that the tactics learnt in Italy are helping him in the Premier League.
The 21-year-old Italian left back was initially signed by Spurs in August 2022 from Udinese for around €18m, but was left in the Northeast of Italy for another year on loan to continue his development. He joined up with Ange Postecoglou’s squad in the summer and quickly impressed, earning a new contract in December.
Udogie has scored two goals and provided three assists in 21 Premier League appearances for Tottenham this season, earning a call-up to Luciano Spalletti’s Italy squad. He’ll be hoping to join the Azzurri for the coming European Championship this summer.
Speaking on pages 28 to 30 of today’s magazine edition of Sportweek, Udogie first discussed his growth over the last six months at Tottenham.
“It’s very satisfying. It depends on the motivation you put into every day, you just have to stay focused and always give your best. Among the things I learned in Italy, which are helping me here, are definitely tactics, the way of defending.”
The 21-year-old left back then spoke about his forward-focused role in Postecoglou’s system.
“I don’t know if it’s the perfect role for me. It’s all new, I’m not used to playing as a midfielder or a number 10, but I often find myself there trying to settle and lend a hand to the team.
“But I think the coach’s style helped me a lot. For me it’s a new way of playing, because last year I was wing back in defence and this year a full back. However, the coach and the staff gave me a hand in fitting in and I’m very grateful to them.”