Tottenham transfer news: Nabil Bentaleb wanted to leave – so now he trains with the under-21s, says Mauricio Pochettino | London Evening Standard

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Nabil Bentaleb wanted to leave Tottenham – so now he trains with the under-21s, explains Mauricio PochettinoNot in my plans: Bentalbe trains with the under-21'sTottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images

Mauricio Pochettino has lifted the lid on Nabil Bentaleb’s situation at Tottenham.

The Algerian is widely expected to leave White Hart Lane before the close of the summer transfer window, with the midfielder currently training with the under-21 side.

Quizzed on the 21-year-old’s situation during his pre-match press conference ahead of today’s clash with Crystal Palace, Pochettino was clear in his stance.

"He is training with the under-21s. He is not with the first team because he wanted to leave," Pochettino said.

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"If he wanted to leave, he can come and see me, I say, 'okay you can leave', and he is waiting to try to find a place away from Tottenham.

"But there is nothing to do. We share the changing room and the restaurants all together, it is not a problem.

"The rule is very clear: if you are not part of my plans, why are you training with us? He understands very well, like any other player."