Erik Lamela has struggled to settle at Spurs (Picture: Getty)

Tottenham new-boy Erik Lamela is working hard to break the language barrier in an attempt to settle in at White Hart Lane, according to team-mate Lewis Holtby.

Lamela became Spurs’ club record signing over the summer, amid their spending spree off the back of Gareth Bale’s departure.

But the former Roma midfielder has struggled to live up to his price-tag so far this term and, despite struggling with the language, it is something he’s determined to rectify.

‘He is very close to the team,’ said Holtby. ‘Even though he does not speak English, he tries to speak the language and he is making a lot of effort. If we are doing something away from the pitch, he tries to be there.




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Erik Lamela has scored one goal since joining Spurs (Picture: AP)

‘Roberto Soldado helps him with the language as well. They are getting there, like I had to when I joined from Germany last season.

‘It is difficult coming from a different country to England but we are trying to make it as easy as possible. I am sure he is going to adapt soon.’

21-year-old Lamela has made just 13 appearances for Andre Villas-Boas’ men this term, making two Premier League starts.

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