Troy Deeney urges Dele Alli to learn from Kevin De Bruyne amid ‘lazy’ claims

Watford striker Troy Deeney has called on Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli to work harder if he is to get out of his current slump.

Alli has made just one Premier League start for Spurs this season and on Thursday his confidence took another hit as he was hauled off at half-time in their 1-0 defeat to Royal Antwerp.

The England international is now facing the likelihood of being left out of the Spurs squad for Sunday’s clash with Brighton by manager Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho has publicly questioned Alli’s attitude and commitment amid claims he is lazy.

© GETTY Dele Alli appears to be out of favour with Spurs boss Jose Mourinho

A move in the summer for Alli was mooted but Spurs opted to keep hold of him.

Video: Blood Red: Match in Pictures | Liverpool 2-1 West Ham Utd | Premier League (Liverpool Echo)

Blood Red: Match in Pictures | Liverpool 2-1 West Ham Utd | Premier League

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But given his struggles, an exit is becoming an increasing possibility to try and reverse his fortunes.

And Deeney feels Alli must work harder and consider moving away to fulfil his potential.

“I don’t know if Dele is not a great trainer but that is what you hear,” he told The Sun.

© Getty Images De Bruyne is loving life at the Etihad

“And when you also hear of the intensity at which teams such as Manchester City and Liverpool train, you understand how they have gone up a notch.

“Mourinho is now trying to replicate that at Tottenham.

“Kevin De Bruyne is a magnificently gifted player but, when you play against him, you are soon struck by how hard he works.

“Dele has to do the same — and maybe he needs a different club to get the best out of him.”