In their 3-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the fourth round of the FA Cup, the shot from Emerson Royal went in for an own goal against The Seagulls. Despite the stat sheet not giving him the goal, it was something to give the 23-year-old confidence.
After the own-goal occurred, Emerson went to celebrate, and the cameras caught the Brazil international was pointing and shouting. After the matchup, manager Antonio Conte was asked about this celebration during his press conference.
“Emerson, he needed this goal. I think his performance was really top tonight. He played very well. And it’s important for his confidence, important for him,” Conte said, per Football.London. “Don’t forget that also Emerson is only 23 years old, and to come here and play in another league is not simple.”
“There are a lot of difficulties, but Emerson is a good player and knows very well that there’s space for improvement. To score a goal was important for the confidence, for himself and especially for the team.”
Conte stated that this moment serves as a confidence booster for the right-back. Emerson had his moments where he has struggled, which comes with adjusting to a new league and country.
These next few months will indicate whether he shows signs of adjusting to the Premier League and if he’s the right-back heading forward under this project, with Managing Director of Football Fabio Paratici and Conte leading the way.
Nobody at the back post, cross would have gone out for a throw in if it hadn’t taken the deflection!
Still, it is what it is, lets get through a few months then buy Spence!
Has absolutely no pace which is a prerequisite for a top wing back in the PL.
An average player. Nowhere near good enough for Spurs.
It was an unintentional goal caused by a wayward cross and a deflection. Still pleased for the boy, good for confidence.