Alli's new role hailed by Dyche in hint at Everton star's potential next move
Dele Alli is playing a crucial behind-the-scenes role for Everton despite being sidelined due to a groin issue.
The former Tottenham midfielder is still continuing his rehabilitation as he prepares to return for the Toffees over a year since his last competitive appearance for the club. Now under the guidance of Sean Dyche, Everton's manager has shared how Alli has been providing valuable feedback to help the coaches get across his style of play.
Alli was previously a huge part of Mauricio Pochettino's Tottenham side which came close to winning the Premier League title and Champions League, before the England international's career stalled dramatically. After opening up on his difficult mental health struggles, Alli is now impressing Dyche with his contributions, even while he remains unable to play.
Ahead of Everton's game against Crystal Palace, Dyche told reporters: "I don't think he would mind me sharing that there probably was a period when it was drifting for him. He had a lot going on. Once that [his mental health battle] came out, it has allowed him the chance to focus on his football and he has been very involved in terms of absorbing.
"He can't get out on the grass with us yet but he is looking at it and he is absorbing what the input from myself and the staff has been. He is clear minded now. It was very difficult what he was going through, of course. We know that. But he is very willing to share, give an opinion."
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He added: "By the way, I am not on about the fact that I am calling him in for an hour, every day, and we are having these big in-depth chats. It's a case of us having a coffee in the canteen. You'll say: 'Hey, Dele, how is it going? What are your thoughts?' He'll point out little things: 'I thought that, I thought this.' It's just a natural combination where we like players to share a view."
Dyche also mentioned that no progress has been made with Spurs over renegotiating the deal that brought Dele to Merseyside. The terms stipulate that Everton must pay £10m should he make seven more appearances, which may be prohibitive to his comeback given Everton's financial constraints. "In-depth" talks will only begin once Dele is close to being available, Dyche said.
The manager shared his thoughts on the player, saying: "He is very assured being in my company, I think. I get that feeling. Likewise, I am in his. Whatever has happened in the dark days for him, he has still experienced a lot. That rounds you as a person. He seems to me to be very secure in himself. He's more than happy to share what he is thinking.
"There is no angle, no win or lose. He's just sharing his thoughts - you forget that he has experienced some really big things in football. He's played in a Champions League final, he's played in a World Cup semi-final. These are amazing things he's experienced. People, sometimes, lose sight of that.
"I'm not accusing anyone of anything, that's just the way it is. He's worked with some really big managers, very good managers with interesting ways of playing. Why wouldn't I go: 'Dele what's your thoughts?' I trust these players. It takes time."
"The player's relationship with a manager is always different. Not many players just want to come and sit with the manager. I try to let the players know I'm more than happy for them to do that.
"They are learning here that they can share their views and do it in a way that we both respect what the truth is. It's not a fight scene. We are trying to get to a stage where we can win together. That's the concept and it's coming. He is a part of that."
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]
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