Emerson Royal reveals what Dani Alves told him prior to his Tottenham move

Emerson Royal has claimed that Barcelona icon Dani Alves has been his idol growing up and has opened up on what the Brazilian told him. The 22-year-old made a £22.5million move from Barca to Tottenham on transfer deadline day at the end of last month and has played three times since making the switch. Emerson is in contention to make his North London Derby debut on Sunday afternoon, vs Arsenal, has now opened up on a right-back he takes great inspiration from - Alves. The former Barcelona star is the second most successful defender of all time in European competitions, with 43 trophies, which is something that makes Emerson idolise the 38-year-old veteran. While speaking to Sky Sports, Spurs defender said:

"I've only had the privilege of speaking with him [Alves] a couple of times on the phone.   "I had the opportunity of meeting him in the build-up to the Copa America [before signing for Spurs] but then he wasn't selected in the final squad. He is a contemporary idol for me as he is someone who ever since I was little has been winning titles wherever he's been.   "He is considered as one of the greatest right-backs of all time and the number of titles he has won during his career speak for themselves.   "I respect what he's achieved but I also have a lot of gratitude for the affection he has for me. When he spoke to me, he told me I had a lot of potential and he had many nice words to say about me as a person.   "When you're recognised in this way by someone who is a legend in the game, it makes you want to succeed even more."

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