Tottenham’s Erik Lamela is confident that fans will see a much better side of him after admitting to feeling “lonely” last season.

The Argentina winger signed for Spurs from Roma last year in a £30m club record deal but failed to make an impact, playing only 17 times during the 2013/14 term.

The 22-year-old made his first appearance since December 29 in Tottenham’s pre-season fixture with Seattle Sounders, coming on at half time.

Lamela is hoping to impress under new manager Mauricio Pochettino and has overcome the injuries which hampered his progress at White Hart Lane.

In an interview with The Sun, he said: “A footballer always feels lonely when he cannot play for whatever reason and I felt very lonely at times last season.

"But I am getting in good shape and am determined to show Tottenham the real Erik Lamela this season.”