Jan hails 'the real Nacer'

Nacer Chadli has earned praise from Spurs team-mate and Belgian compatriot Jan Vertonghen for his impressive start to the season.

The attacking midfielder, a summer 2013 recruit from Dutch side FC Twente, struggled to hold down a regular place in the side in his first season at White Hart Lane.

But it’s been a very different story this time around, the 25-year-old scoring twice on his first Premier League appearance of the season – our 4-0 victory against Queens Park Rangers – and following that up with goals in respective draws against Sunderland and Arsenal.

Unlucky not to hit the target in last Sunday’s 1-0 win over Southampton – his first half shot cannoning back off the inside of the post – Nacer has certainly caught the eye of many, including team-mate Jan.

“He’s a very good player,” said the defender of his Belgian international colleague. “It’s a shame he couldn’t show what he is capable of last year but now we’re seeing the real Nacer.

“We already knew from his performances for Belgium what he was able to do so I’m pleased for him and the team.

“It’s great that he’s growing. He can be very important for us.”