Can Tottenham Hotspur really improve on Emerson at right wing-back?

Other wing-backs to consider for Tottenham

There are loads of players that Spurs could consider to play wide in Conte’s system and a much depends on whether the Italian gaffer wants a more attacking player who can get back defensively or a defender who can do well getting forward.

Players like Ridle and Dest can do both rather well but are hard to get and few and far between.

If Conte wants a more defensive-oriented player who can get forward into the box Noussair Mazroui of Ajax is one to consider. Jeremie Frimpong of Leverkusen is interesting, having played in the Manchester City academy he could count as homegrown and Frimpong is known to have some good delivery but will not bring consistency to the defensive end.

Even a player like Aston Villa’s Matty Cash could provide an alternative option to Emerson, providing what Doherty does with room to grow and is British. Just as the signing of players like Kyle Walker-Peters or Tino Livramento from Southampton or even Max Aarons from Norwich would tick some boxes but you cannot really say they are better than Royal.

Ultimately, what Spurs are most likely to find are going to be alternatives to Royal, rather than true upgrades. Having a more attacking option, whether, Ridle, Dest, or Traore makes sense, just do not be disappointed if it doesn’t happen.