90min

Antonio Conte reacts to Richarlison's first game for Tottenham

By Jude Summerfield

Richarlison made his first appearance for Spurs on Wednesday
Richarlison made his first appearance for Spurs on Wednesday / Han Myung-Gu/GettyImages
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Antonio Conte revealed he was happy to see Richarlison's versatility during Tottenham's 6-3 pre-season victory over Team K League on Wednesday.

The Brazilian was the only summer signing to feature in the game, playing 77 minutes and coming close with a header which was saved. He started in a central role alongside Bryan Gil and Lucas Moura before shifting over to the right when Harry Kane and Son Heung-min were introduced.

Richarlison adds greater depth to Tottenham's attack and Conte admitted he was happy with the different roles the former Everton forward filled in Seoul.

“Richarlison, what’s impressive is his attitude, his will, his desire," he said. "I like him in both roles, number nine, but then also in the second half like a number 10, and he showed great spirit to sacrifice for the team so, yes, a good performance from him."

He added: “Today I've seen a lot of positive things about Richy. The first half he played like a number nine and the second half he played on the right, behind the striker. I think he can play in all these three positions.

“I think he is strong physically and a good personality, good character, good quality. For sure also for Richy in this period, he is working and we are working on the tactical aspects with him because he has to go into our idea. At the same time, we have to work on the physical aspects for him to be fit.

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“But for sure he is a player that gives me important positions up front. He's a player that is a good player, strong and very good to protect the ball and attack the space. Also, he made a good assist, I'm very happy that we signed him.”

Spurs are next in action on Saturday, when they face Sevilla at Suwon World Cup Stadium.