Pochettino insists ‘easy target’ Alli will not let abuse get to him
Mauricio Pochettino believes Dele Alli is an easy target for rival players and fans but insists the forward will not let it spoil his game.
Alli was influential as Spurs beat Crystal Palace on Sunday and he was booed at the end by the home supporters after twice going to ground in the penalty area and claiming for a penalty.
“He’s an easy target for everyone. He’s surrounded around (the pitch),” Spurs boss Pochettino said.
“For me, the first action of Wayne Hennessy against Ben Davies was a clear penalty but I did not see the action (with Alli) so I cannot say.
“We need to start to stop thinking too much about him, or to help the fans create this reputation. It is his game, he plays like this, he is so competitive.
“No I’m not worried it will affect his confidence. Dele is a special kid. He is going to play, show his quality and not worry about what people say.”
Spurs moved into the top four after Harry Kane’s late winner.
“We dominated and in the end deserved the victory,” Pochettino said. “Harry never stops believing he has the chance to score and that is the most important thing.”
Spurs return to Wembley on Wednesday evening when they face Rochdale in the FA Cup.
