‘Fire still burns’ – Dele Alli backed by Como president after disastrous debut that saw ex-Tottenham star sent off 10 minutes into first appearance for over two years

After more than two years stuck on the sidelines, as endless questions were asked of his form and fitness, Dele finally returned to action when stepping off the bench for Como in their Serie A clash with AC Milan. He lasted less than 10 minutes before picking up a red card.

Dele was dismissed for a challenge on former Three Lions colleague Ruben Loftus-Cheek, while current England star and AC Milan loanee Kyle Walker pleaded his case once it became apparent – following a VAR review – that marching orders would be given.

More unfortunate headlines have been made on the back of that forgettable cameo appearance, but Como president Mirwan Suwarso is delighted to have Dele on board. He has posted on social media: “The fire still burns. After nearly two years, Dele Alli stepped back onto the battlefield. It takes courage to keep going, to fight through doubt, to silence the noise, and to return, not just to play, but to compete at the highest level once again.

“Some will talk about the red card. Let them. We saw something else. We saw hunger. We saw resilience. We saw flashes of brilliance. And those of us who watch him train every day know. This is only the beginning. The road back is never easy, but warriors don’t quit. Keep going, Dele. Your best is yet to come. Semm Cumasch.”

Dele is now working with ex-Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas at Como, with the Spaniard filling his first managerial post. He has led his side to a 13th-place standing in the Italian top-flight, with a seven-point gap separating them from the relegation zone.