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Two tackles, five clearances: Tottenham star looks more solid with Conte guidance

Tottenham Hotspur made it seven points from a possible nine under Antonio Conte with a 2-0 win over Brentford – and Emerson Royal’s stats are improving under the Italian gaffer.

Spurs came into the game after their clash with Burnley was cancelled on the weekend due to snow. It meant the last time Spurs had played, was the dismal 2-1 defeat to Slovenian side NS Mura.

But they controlled Thursday evening’s match from start to finish. An electric start ended in Son Heung-min’s cross going in, as Pontus Jansson headed against his teammate Sergi Canos.

It was 2-0 in the second half, this time Son the scorer. A lovely move down the left involving Harry Kane and Sergio Reguilon saw the Spaniard square for Son – and he duly obliged.

But it was Royal’s stats that continue to impress. The Brazil international is renowned for his attacking exploits on the right, but on Thursday – he was superb defensively, according to the stats.

Tottenham Hotspur v Brentford - Premier League
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

Emerson stats: Tottenham man improving under Conte already

that Emerson cleared the ball from dangerous areas five times – more than any of his outfield Tottenham teammates. With Davinson Sanchez on the right of a three, he was more defensive.

Not only that, but he also produced two tackles and two interceptions – again, top of the charts. He also enjoyed his side’s third-best passing rate behind Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Oliver Skipp – with 83%.

The £25million signing had got off to a shaky start in English football. Perhaps the defensive side of it was completely different to Spanish football – but under Conte, he is certainly improving.

Tottenham Hotspur v Brentford - Premier League
Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images