It looked risky for Ange Postecoglou to name four teenagers in his starting line-up, but his faith in his young players paid off as Tottenham beat Ferencvaros to record their second win in two Europa League matches.
Postecoglou included winger Mikey Moore, 17, for his first start, midfielder Lucas Bergvall, 18, defender Archie Gray, 18, and 19-year-old striker Will Lankshear, who was making his senior debut.
Moore was heavily involved in Tottenhamâs first goal, scored by Pape Sarr, with Moore and Gray also involved in the build-up to what proved the decisive goal from substitute Brennan Johnson as Spurs fought hard to win in the Budapest rain.
"Theyâre part of our first-team squad, not because I want some young players, itâs because theyâve earned that spot," said Postecoglou. "Theyâre an important part of our development. While we want to be a team that has an impact this year, itâs important weâre developing players along the way."
But the strongest praise was reserved for Moore, with Postecoglou saying: âI thought Mikey was outstanding. Itâs brilliant for a 17-year-old to play 90-plus minutes in a European away tie. He just handled it superbly, I kind of knew he would and I think itâll help his growth as a footballer."
Spurs fans can expect to see a lot more of the teenage quartet throughout the rest of the season.