Alderweireld and Pochettino praise Spurs midfield duo

Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld has praised the efforts of his midfield team-mates Mousa Dembele and Victory Wanyama as Tottenham stand second behind Chelsea in the Premier League table.

Spurs have won three and drawn two matches in the last five games with Dembele and Wanyama at the centre of the park.

“They are both playing fantastic football and having wonderful seasons.” Alderweireld told the club website. “They are strong, good on the ball, they know tactically where they have to go, when they have to clear or keep it.

“They have all the qualities, not one or two things but the lot, so that makes it difficult for opponents. They help us a lot. If teams go through them we are there and if they get through us, Hugo is there! That’s a good thing.”

 Both players have kept their passing above the 88% mark with Dembele having started in 27 matches this season, while Wanyama – 24. The good form of the midfield duo has not remained unnoticed with manager Mauricio Pochettino too who praised them after Tottenham’s win against Middlesborough.

“All the team played well,” he said, “but it’s true that they are showing good commitment and playing well and they understand the position perfectly. It’s important to dominate the area because it’s an area [where] you build the game.

“We have two strong players plus Harry, Eric Dier as well – all the team deserve praise.”

Spurs are on a great run of form, having not conceded defeat in 11 matches while sitting second, nine points behind leaders Chelsea.