It was almost a perfect outing for Tottenham Hotspur as they secured a 5-1 win against Charlton Athletic in the second round of the Carabao Cup.
While most of the focus was on new signings as Mateus Fernandes made his first competitive start and Savio his debut, it was an old head in Rodrigo Bentancur who kept things ticking in the middle of the park.
The midfielder was crucial for Roberto De Zerbi last season when they avoided relegation but was benched for Tottenham’s Premier League clash vs Brentford.
And now, after his fantastic display vs Charlton, the Italian has singled out Bentancur for special praise.
Roberto De Zerbi lauds Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur
“I think today Rodrigo Betancur played very well,” said De Zerbi via Football London.
“I think now he is very important for us. Unfortunately, he started the season later than the other players, but when Rodrigo Betancur is fit, he is available, he is in the right physical condition, he is a different player. Because his understanding is great, he is a different player.”
Tottenham take on Newcastle United on Saturday and it appears unlikely that Bentancur will start that game as well, having played last night.
Sandro Tonali, however, is expected to return, but having the Uruguayan fit and firing could prove to be invaluable for Tottenham this season.
