Mauricio Pochettino praised Georges-Kevin N’Koudou after the French winger impressed in Tottenham’s Champions League win against Apoel.
N’Koudou, 22, scored in a 3-0 victory for Spurs, who went through to the knockout stage as group winners.
It was only his third start since being signed from Marseille in 2016.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, boss Pochettino said: “He is a great kid. He is always smiling. Everyone loves him.
“I feel bad, and I feel disappointed, when I can’t give him the opportunity to play. Now it’s about helping him and pushing him to improve.”
Asked if N’Koudou has a future at the club, Pochettino said: “Yes of course, but he is so young.
“It was a massive opportunity for him. It was important for him to score and it was good to see him smile again.
“I have been happy in the last few weeks with how he’s worked and reacted. In this way, he can only improve and help the team, and help himself.”
Fernando Llorente and Heung-Min Son also scored in a comfortable Spurs win at Wembley.
“I hope we keep that level and, of course, our motivation to play in the best competition in the world is massive,” Pochettino added.