Jose Mourinho has suggested that Gedson Fernandes’ loan spell at Tottenham could be cut short.
The midfielder joined Spurs on an 18-month loan from Benfica in January, having established himself as one of the most highly regarded young players in Europe.
The deal was with an option to buy and hopes were high that he would become a fixture of the Tottenham team.
However, he has so far been unable to make an impact in north London.
He has not started a Premier League game for Mourinho’s side, with all seven of his league appearances coming as a substitute.
And boss Mourinho has indicated that Spurs would not stand in the 21-year-old’s way if Benfica looked to take him back when the transfer window reopens and there is an option to end his loan.
“For me it is never a problem, but a solution. Having him in the squad, even if he is not called up and not playing, is an extremely comfortable situation,” Mourinho told SportTV, as reported by Sky Sports.
“I will never be the one to push him or say that I don’t want him here. But I understand the situation of the kid and Benfica.
“If the club wants to end the relationship here, we will be here to collaborate, because we want the good of the player. Benfica has the power to decide and will be accepted by us.”