Profile: England new-boy Dele Alli
17 September 2015 - UEFA Europa League (Group J) - Tottenham Hotspur v FK Qarabag - Dele Alli of Tottenham Hotspur in action with Badavi Guseynov of Qarabag - Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.
Despite some impressive performances for Tottenham this season, many England fans will have been surprised to see Dele Alli’s name in Roy Hodgson’s squad for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers.
So what do we know about the 19-year-old? Shoot takes a closer look at the Spurs midfielder.
Where did he start his career?
Alli was born in Milton Keynes and joined his local team’s youth system when he was 11. He made his debut at the age of 16 in 2012, and he scored his first goal for the Dons 11 days later.
The 2013-14 season was the midfielder’s breakthrough year at stadiummk, and he made 37 appearances in all competitions, scoring seven goals.
What happened next?
The following campaign was to be an even better one for Alli, as he became a first choice in central midfield following the departure of Darren Potter.
The tall teenager was part of the historic 4-0 victory against Manchester United in the Capital One Cup, and his impressive performances saw Tottenham swoop for him in a £5 million deal on the last day of the 2015 winter transfer window.
Alli returned on loan to MK Dons for the remainder of last season, helping them to get promoted to the Championship.
How has he done at Spurs?
The 19-year-old made his debut for the club on the opening day of the Premier League season against Manchester United at Old Trafford, and has become a regular fixture in Mauricio Pochettino’s side’s midfield, scoring his first Tottenham goal in the draw against Leicester.
How big a shock was his call-up to Roy Hodgson’s England squad?
Quite a big one actually. It was rumoured that the Three Lions boss had been watching him, but not many would have expected a call-up after just six Premier League appearances. In fact, some people have suggested that his Spurs team-mate, Eric Dier, should have been included instead.
Why does Roy believe he can do a job for England?
Despite playing in midfield, Alli showed his potential as he scored 16 goals in 39 League One matches for MK Dons. Despite his tender years, he has shown real maturity and composure so far this term in the top-flight.
Super stat: Alli’s call-up has come after he has played just 322 minutes of Premier League football.