Kyle Naughton returns to training and could play in League Cup

Kyle Naughton is fit again and could play in the League Cup on Wednesday. The fullback has missed the last five matches with a heel injury, but he's back in training and Mauricio Pochettino thinks he could be available right away.

"Kyle is in the squad and may start or be on the bench, we need to decide, but he’s available," Pochettino said.

Spurs aren't desperate to get Naughton back anymore. Kyle Walker is fit now and has regained his right back place, while Ben Davies has played well at left back. Pochettino said that Naughton could be an option, more likely off the bench, and that's where he'll like be most of the time anyway.

There was a time when Naughton was vital to Spurs. Walker was hurt and Eric Dier was playing poorly at fullback, leaving Naughton as the only competent player at the position. Then he got hurt and Vlad Chiriches had to play right back, which was a disaster. But that time has passed.

It will be nice to have Naughton back because he is a good backup and can step in when needed. That's not something that should be undervalued and with Walker just returning from injury, he is going to need some rest. That is where Naughton comes in.

Pochettino also said that Emmanuel Adebayor was training again after being away on compassionate leave, but that he needs to get fit before he's an option.