Erik Lamela Vows To Repay Tottenham Faith

Erik Lamela insists he has never thought about leaving Tottenham Hotspur despite receiving enquiries from other clubs during the summer.

Argentine international Lamela became the club's record signing last year following his £30m move from Roma but his first season in England was derailed by injury and poor form as he struggled to adapt to a new country.

However, under the management of fellow countryman Mauricio Pochettino, the 22-year-old has shown rapid improvement this term and went on to score his first goal for his country in a 4-2 win over world champions Germany on 3 September.

Lamela was frequently linked with a return to Serie A during his initial struggles at White Hart Lane but has now vowed to repay the faith the club have shown in him.

"I read a lot of things in the newspapers and perhaps there were a few enquiries from clubs, but I had no direct contact or doubts about my future," Lamela told Corriere dello Sport.

"Last season was complicated for me because of injury but I feel good now. And I have to thank Tottenham for their help and patience – they have always shown faith in me.

"Now I am on the right path and I want to impose myself in the Premier League.

When quizzed on the possibility of one day returning to Italy, the former Roma forward said: "I am still young and my career will be a long one. But, to be honest, all I am thinking about right now is Tottenham. I want to give them my best. I owe them that."

Lamela has started all three of Tottenham's Premier League games this season. He played an instrumental role in the 4-0 win over Queens Park Rangers, providing two assists.