Tottenham Hotspur captain Heung-min Son has reiterated his support for Dele Alli, and insists his former teammate is still a part of the family at the club.

After signing for Spurs from League One side MK Dons as a teenager, Alli went on to become a Premier League sensation. His dynamic displays as part of a formidable Tottenham attack earned the midfielder widespread praise.

In total, Alli turned out 269 times for the Lilywhites, scoring 67 goals and registering 61 assists (Transfermarkt).

Tottenham Hotspur FC/Getty Images/Tottenham Hotspur FC

However, his fortunes changed once Mauricio Pochettino was dismissed of his duties as manager of the club. Alli transferred to Everton in January of last year after a dramatic drop in form.

The 27-year-old has struggled on Merseyside, as well as during a loan spell with Besiktas last season. Recent disclosures concerning Alli’s mental health concerns and difficult childhood have thrown some insight on his situation (The Overlap).Tottenham Hotspur FC/Getty Images/Tottenham Hotspur FC

Dele is part of the Spurs family, says Heung-min Son

The former Tottenham Hotspur player was in the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday evening as the North London club overcame Manchester United. Son expressed admiration for his old pal Dele Alli in an interview with the Independent.

“Dele was always close to me as a friend,” he stated. It was a difficult time for him, and I’m always there to encourage him since he’s one of my best friends.

“I believe this is a very special relationship.” When I was struggling to settle in the UK, he was a huge help. He was a great assistance to me and is still a dear buddy of mine.

“It’s always good to see him and any time if he needs anything, any second, I will be always there for him. I don’t want him to have tough times anymore. We will always support him… I will always support him, like a member of family.”

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It is so nice to just see Dele smiling again and seemingly happy to be in a footballing environment once more. I really hope he can bounce back and play regularly, wherever that may be. Maybe one day he will make his way back to Spurs, which would be brilliant.