Dele Alli’s displeasure at being hooked again (this time against Red Bull Leipzig) by José Mourinho was clear for all to see. The 23-year-old has up until now been a firm fan favourite and it was difficult to find supporters who were willing to directly call him out on social media.
It looks as though that tide may be turning. Dele’s performances of late have seen the now former England star looking off the pace and seemingly lacking the focus that separates good players from excellent ones.
Cynics might suggest that Alli’s problem is that he’s run out of excuses. The injuries are behind him, the off-field distractions are behind him (if one ignores the allegedly racist video misdemeanour), and yet he’s incapable of finding his groove.
We’re all aware of the “Dele’s brother” tale, and for a few games, it looked as if the boy was going to flourish under Mourinho.
Losing these fans does not bode well. Time to pull your finger out sunshine, and not to perform some adolescent handshake.
