Spurs midfielder Paulinho defends himself and insists he is working hard

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Paulinho has defended himself after suggestions that head coach Tim Sherwood’s recent criticism at his team has been aimed at the Brazilian among a few others individuals. The former Corinthians midfielder has been speaking to the Guardian this week and believes he has a “clean conscience” despite a difficult first season in […]
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sambafoot_admin
2014-04-04 14:51:00

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Paulinho has defended himself after suggestions that head coach Tim Sherwood’s recent criticism at his team has been aimed at the Brazilian among a few others individuals.

The former Corinthians midfielder has been speaking to the Guardian this week and believes he has a “clean conscience” despite a difficult first season in England.

The 25-year-old also revealed his annoyance at the rotation system which is common in Europe, but less so in Brazil.

But firstly Paulinho discussed Sherwood’s criticism, although he wasn’t that comfortable doing so.

“Sherwood is in charge and every manager has a style,” Paulinho said.

“It’s his call if he wants to publicly criticise the players. It’s up to each one of us to have a clean conscience about what they are doing for the team.

“I am very comfortable in saying that I have been working hard and trying to do what the club signed me for.”

The Brazilian was much more comfortable discussing rotation though, and his displeasure is clear to see.

Paulinho added: “You are told before coming to Europe that big teams here quite often rotate players.

“I respect this culture but it is instinctive for me to get annoyed if I don’t play every game.

“I always want to be on the pitch, much as I know it is my first season here and how difficult it is for a South American player to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.”