'Tanguy's in a process of evolution' - Mourinho instills faith in Ndombele

Jose Mourinho insists he was never in doubt of Tanguy Ndombele’s abilities after he inspired Tottenham to a Europa League qualifier win.

Tanguy Ndombele assumed the role of a match-winner as his late strike saw Tottenham get the better of Lokomotiv Plovdiv in the second Europa League qualifying round.

Ndombele was not included in the Jose Mourinho’s starting XI in Thursday’s clash in Bulgaria and only came off the bench to replace Moussa Sissoko for the final 30 minutes or so.

But those 30 minutes were enough for the midfielder to make a strong impact as his 85th-minute deadlock-breaking goal made sure it is Spurs are the opposition for Macedonian side KF Shkendija in the third Europa League qualifying round.

Ndombele vs Plovdiv compilation obviously it’s only Plovdiv but hopefully the start of the player regaining full confidence in a spurs shirt. Video via @Hugo_Prods pic.twitter.com/lBnaRUdhst
— Lilywhite Rose (@Lilywhite_Rose) September 18, 2020

The 23 -year old endured a difficult time in his debut Premier League season following a €62 million move from Lyon last summer, with speculations arising that the club were willing to part ways with their record signing.

However, Mourinho ended those speculations suggesting that he has Ndombele in his future plans.

“Tanguy is in a process of evolution. Last season he was stuck in a situation where I couldn’t see evolution,” he said in his post-match press conference, according to Football Daily.

“In this moment, he’s training very, very well. He’s recovering from his injury, he’s recovering physically and today he gave us what we needed in this last 30 minutes.”

“I never doubted his quality. Never. I doubted in some moments his motivation and commitment and professional attitude.”