Mauricio Pochettino came in for a lot of criticism from some supporters for his treatment of Erik Lamela in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Leicester City – the Tottenham manager only introduced Moura from the bench in the 85th minute after Spurs had gone behind.
Moura has contributed three goals in six games this season but can’t seem to get many minutes in the Premier League. The 27-year-old was an unused substitute in Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal (September 1), had five minutes from the bench in a 4-0 win over Crystal Palace and had four minutes on Saturday. Fans made their feelings clear on social media.
Eriksen benched while Lamela starts over Moura… Yes bench Eriksen but give Moura more starts please Poch.
Gazzaniga in goal? Alfie Whiteman on bench. Is Lloris injured? 🤔
Kane and Son up front 👌 Aurier starts again 👏 #THFC #LEITOT #COYS #LWOS
— Benny (@BookishBenny) September 21, 2019
https://twitter.com/Youssef_E/status/1175399042974736385?s=20
Why can’t Lucas Moura get on the pitch?! Wtf is going on in Poch’s head? 🤷🏻♂️ #COYS #thfc #LEIvsTOT
— Parry Ruparelia (@Parry300) September 21, 2019
https://twitter.com/MrMcKune/status/1175405315325669376?s=20
I can never understand Poch's sub decisions…
why Wanyama and why wait that long for Moura?🤔#THFC
— James Wilson (@JamesWilson_94) September 21, 2019
This game is screaming out for Moura #COYS #THFC
— Micah Kellner (@MicahZKellner) September 21, 2019
His only starts this season have come against Aston Villa (August 8), Manchester City (August 17), Newcastle United (August 25) and Olympiacos (September 18). Pochettino has preferred Heung-min Son, Erik Lamela and Christian Eriksen.
Tottenham are currently seventh in the table with eight points from six games, having picked up just one win in five. The Lilywhites next face Colchester United (EFL Cup) on Tuesday and Southampton (Premier League) on Saturday. Whether Moura starts either game remains to be seen, however.