Tottenham have made a decent start to the Premier League season, following plenty of changes on and off the pitch.
The summer saw Thomas Frank appointed as manager, bringing about a different style of play from his predecessor, Ange Postecoglou.
There was plenty of transfer business too, as Tottenham brought in a few new faces in their squad to help compete across all fronts.
While Mohammed Kudus has been a standout in the first few months of his time at Spurs, it’s another signing who has caught the attention of Jamie Carragher.
Joao Palhinha praised by Jamie Carragher after Tottenham move
Tottenham’s change in style has seen them move from a free-flowing, attacking outfit to one that is slightly more rigid.
That has seen some struggles for forward signings, such as Xavi Simons, but it has certainly helped Joao Palhinha, following his loan move from Bayern Munich.
That has led to some praise from Jamie Carragher, who said in the Telegraph: “In Xavi Simons he has signed a gifted footballer who fits the Spurs tradition. He is the type of player the fans will want to see flourish.
“The best signing under Frank so far is Joao Palhinha, a highly effective ball-winner more so than a playmaker.
“In the early stages of his Spurs career, Palhinha is exactly what Frank and his new club need, and it could bring instant success.
“Going forward, there will have to be an evolution, as the pairing of Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur is perceived by supporters to be over-cautious in home games.”
That perception has made it tough for fans to warm towards Frank’s style of play, even with results improving on last season.
Perhaps that will come with time and injuries easing in the team, but there is some convincing to be done.
Will Tottenham sign Joao Palhinha permanently after loan spell
Tottenham have an option to sign Palhinha permanently next season, with a fee worth £26 million included in his loan from Bayern Munich.
So far, all signs point towards a potential deal being struck in the summer, given how well he has performed for Spurs.
A few goals have sweetened the deal, with the Portuguese star impressing in his ability to break up opposition attacks.
Frank has praised his impact so far this season, when saying: “Very happy with Joao. He has done very well for us. Come in, helped the team, performing well, playing centre-back and still doing well. Really pleased with him.”
If his form continues as it is, then there is every chance a contract could be on the table for the star.