Tottenham boss Martin Jol predicted a bright future for rising Irish stars Andy Reid and Stephen Kelly after they emerged from yesterday's London derby win over Fulham with enhanced reputations.
Spurs were dire until the second-half arrival of substitutes Frederic Kanoute and Robbie Keane inspired them to victory with Reid and Kelly among the few to rise above the mediocrity at White Hart Lane.
Reid's powerful runs into the box caused Fulham's defence plenty of problems, while Kelly did a superb job of marshalling Luis Boa Morte, the visitors' main attacking weapon.
"We knew Andy was a talented player and that's why we signed him from Nottingham Forest. It's a big step up to the Premiership but he's an international player for Ireland and they're one of the best teams around," said Jol.
"Can he cope with the pressure of playing in the Premiership? He did well in first match and today so I think he proved he can. There is much more to come from him because he's such an intelligent guy.
"He has a big future. You could compare him with the typical Dutch winger - he's a genuine left winger. He can play in a 4-4-2 as well, which makes him a useful player to have in the squad."
The Spurs coach also had good things to say about Kelly but added that the Dubliner's game still has room for improvement.
"He's a great prospect but he's also realistic because he tells me he has to improve on certain areas like his final ball. Maybe he's is a little quiet. He has personality but he must express himself more," said Jol.
