Emerson Royal sends four-word message amid Tottenham team selection hint vs Crystal Palace

Tottenham Hotspur defender Emerson Royal has taken to Instagram hours before their encounter with Crystal Palace.

The Brazilian full-back featured as a late substitute in their 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa in north London on New Year's Day, replacing Matt Doherty. Royal has slipped down the pecking order in Antonio Conte's side in the restart after the World Cup.

However, the 23-year-old recently received praise from the Italian tactician as he tipped the former Barcelona-man to have a "bright future".

READ MORE: Full Tottenham squad available vs Crystal Palace

In his pre-match press conference ahead of their trip to Selhurst Park, he said: "He is one of the young players that we are working on, a really good prospect, players who have a brilliant future.

"I’m talking Gil, Skippy, Pape Sarr, Spence, Sessegnon, also, Emerson is only 23, Harvey White, players who are growing," he added.

The late cameo appearance to begin 2023 was Royal's 13th Premier League appearance of the campaign. He has just one assist during that time and was sent off during their North London Derby defeat.

On the eve of their trip to Selhurst Park, the 23-year-old has taken to Instagram, he posted on his story: "Dia de ser feliz (Day to be happy)."

Emerson Royal on Instagram prior to their match against Crystal Palace. (emerson_royal/Instagram)

Whether that is a selection hint remains to be seen but his fellow full-back, Doherty, has been entrusted as the wing-back in their two mid-season friendlies and opening two Premier League matches since the restart.

Emerson Royal may be introduced to take advantage of Palace's injury and suspension list with Tyrick Mitchell out following his red card.

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