Former Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has claimed that Tottenham Hotspur star Dele Alli risks 'wasting' his talent if he gets distracted by off-field matters.

In two years since his switch from MK Dons, the 21-year-old has become a regular starter at Spurs, as well as a senior England international.

This season, the midfielder has scored five goals and created one assist in all competitions, but there are reportedly concerns within the Tottenham hierarchy that Alli is struggling to focus due to matters away from the pitch.

"I love him as a player but there are too many things publicly about him, too many issues," Poyet told talkSPORT. "I would say to him concentrate on football because if he does, he can be one of the best.

"Forget about the media, forget about Instagram, things like these, just focus on football please because you are outstanding.

"I'm not saying don't have a life but there are ways to do it and moments to do it and he cannot waste his qualities because of external things. If he does concentrate on football, he is going to be amazing to watch."

Alli could make his first Champions League appearance of the season on Wednesday when Spurs take on Real Madrid at Wembley.

The youngster was ineligible for the opening three games due to a UEFA ban.