Archie Gray got his name on the scoresheet as Tottenham secured a 2-0 home win vs Crystal Palace.
Starting at right-back, the youngster broke the deadlock in the first half with a goal and produced an energetic display in the absence of Pedro Porro, who came on in the second half.
However, despite his goal, Roberto De Zerbi substituted him during the interval.
And speaking after the game, the Italian explained why he made such a tough decision.
Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi makes honest Archie Gray claim
“I didn’t want to take a risk for another yellow card,” said De Zerbi via Football London.
“I’m sorry because he was playing very well. I explained why I took the decision, but I think it was the right decision at that moment.
“He’s improving a lot. I don’t know, after Manchester United, he’s playing very, very well, as a mature player.
“Today, the best thing about the team, they showed to be mature. They knew what we had to do with the ball, not to take stupid risks and to counter-attack even with one player more.”
Gray was on a booking and with an experienced player like Porro on the bench, De Zerbi did the right thing at half-time.
Tottenham made their man advantage count brilliantly after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s early red card. However, with Gray walking a defensive tightrope, it made sense to bring Porro on as he was more than ready to play 45 mins.
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