Mateus Fernandes strengthened his case for a regular place in Tottenham's starting line-up with an impressive midfield performance in Saturday's 2-0 Premier League victory over Chelsea.
The 22-year-old Portuguese midfielder started alongside Sandro Tonali at Stamford Bridge as Roberto De Zerbi's side secured a rare away victory over their London rivals.
Fernandes, who joined Spurs from West Ham in an £85million summer transfer, played a prominent role in a Tottenham side that controlled possession for long periods.
De Zerbi's faith in Fernandes pays off
De Zerbi played an important part in convincing Fernandes to join Tottenham following West Ham's relegation.
The midfielder previously revealed that the Italian's regular contact with him and his family helped persuade him to make the move.
Fernandes had also experienced relegation with Southampton, making his next career decision particularly significant.
His performance against Chelsea offered further evidence of the qualities that persuaded Tottenham to invest heavily in his signing.
Fernandes and Tonali impress against Chelsea
Fernandes partnered Tonali in central midfield as Tottenham enjoyed almost 70 per cent possession at Stamford Bridge.
Spurs took the lead in the 77th minute when Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders punched a corner from Fernandes into his own net under pressure from Jan Paul van Hecke.
Chelsea's task became more difficult three minutes later when Cole Palmer was dismissed after receiving a second yellow card.
Mathys Tel completed the scoring in the 87th minute with an individual goal, securing Tottenham's second victory at Stamford Bridge in 34 years.
De Zerbi praises Tottenham's midfield
De Zerbi highlighted Fernandes and Tonali among several players who impressed during Tottenham's victory.
The Spurs head coach described the display as a complete performance and praised his team's quality, mentality and growing confidence.
Fernandes' involvement in the midfield battle and the opening goal strengthened his case for further opportunities as Tottenham look to build on the result.
Key Points
- Mateus Fernandes started alongside Sandro Tonali in Tottenham's 2-0 victory over Chelsea.
- The £85million summer signing contributed to a dominant possession display.
- Fernandes delivered the corner that led to Mike Penders' own goal.
- Roberto De Zerbi praised Tottenham's quality and mentality following the victory.
What's Next?
Fernandes' performance against Chelsea has strengthened his case for another Premier League start, leaving De Zerbi with a selection decision to make.
The Portuguese midfielder will hope to retain his place alongside Sandro Tonali as he looks to establish himself in Tottenham's starting line-up.
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