Mikey Moore was the standout performer for Tottenham in their Europa League triumph over AZ Alkmaar, with manager Ange Postecoglou asserting that ‘you can’t deny’ the young star’s ability.
The 17-year-old came close with an early header but significantly showcased his skills in the second half when he shifted to the left wing.
He persistently challenged the Dutch side’s defense during an exhilarating period that nearly saw Tottenham add more goals to Richarlison’s penalty in the 53rd minute.
Postecoglou remarked: “It’s pretty hard for me to keep a lid on it now isn’t it?! He was thrilling. You cannot deny it. There’s no reason to deny it.
“I admire how Mikey is absorbing everything; he puts in the effort every day. He is eager to grow and recognizes that this is a journey.
Madders knows 👊 pic.twitter.com/2dj0W2YSxB
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) October 24, 2024
“It’s quite common for a young player like him, fresh off turning 17, to feel like he’s reached a milestone, but you never get that impression. It’s quite exciting.
“You have a young talent who craves the responsibility to make a difference, unlike some young players who may hesitate about making mistakes. He is growing well.
“We need to be cautious about how and when we employ him, which is crucial in these early phases.
“I have no hesitation in using him. Absolutely not. I see him every day and know he’s a remarkable young player with much more to deliver.
“What reassures me most is how he is managing everything. I don’t think that if he hears what Madders said about him it will affect him tomorrow. That’s the crucial point for us.”
Spurs manager Postecoglou also expressed satisfaction with how Richarlison and captain James Maddison dealt with the penalty situation, where Rodrigo Bentancur had to step in to direct the Brazil international to allow the stand-in captain to take the kick.
“As long as they score, it doesn’t particularly concern me,” Postecoglou stated.
“I thought Madders was exceptional today. He seemed to understand in that moment that Richy had worked tremendously hard and needed to kickstart his season tonight.
“Goals are vital for strikers, so I thought Madders made a wise choice to assign him that responsibility, but Richy had to convert it, and he did.”
Image Source: Mikey Moore @ Instagram
