Pedro Porro returned to the Premier League 12 months ago with a point to prove after failing to break through at Manchester City.

Producing an uninspiring debut against Leicester in February 2023, the Spanish full-back has since gone on to establish himself as one of Tottenham's most important players.

As they enjoy a two-week break ahead of the FA Cup clash against City on January 26, we look at Porro's increasing influence under Ange Postecoglou.

Perfecting his role

With Ange keen on implementing his front-foot approach in North London, Porro is having to put a shift in all over the pitch.

Part of his role under the Australian is to invert and provide an extra body in midfield and the 24-year-old has taken this responsibility in his stride.

His range of passing and superb technique is typical of a modern defender and Porro is always looking to be the link in Tottenham's fast-paced transitions.

In the Premier League this season, the former Sporting speedster has registered 34 shots — the most for a defender in the competition. 

His work in the defensive third is also notable, with only Vinicius Souza and Joao Palhinha making than Porro's 61 tackles.

Spurs are finally getting their strongest central defenders back in Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, meaning things are only going to get easier for the two-cap international.

Seal of approval 

Unsurprisingly, Postecoglou has been delighted with the progress of Porro and believes he has the application to do incredible things at the club.

He said: "I love Pedro because from the day I arrived he's got so much passion and energy and enthusiasm for the game.

"He's worked really, really hard on the defensive side of his game. Obviously, it's a different kind of role.

"He's used to playing as a wing-back and he's got a lot more defensive responsibility, but we always knew he had the attacking qualities."

End product

The attacking qualities referred to by the Spurs boss have been on full display this term and Porro popped up with his seventh assist in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

Only Mohamed Salah and Ollie Watkins have provided more since the start of the season, with the 5ft 6in maestro delivering the goods from open play and set-pieces.

Porro has yet to get himself on the scoresheet in the league but showcased what he can do in the FA Cup win over Burnley.

Spurs' No23 thundered a magnificent strike into the top corner from distance to steer his side into the fourth round and set up the crunch clash with his old club.

Living the dream

Despite enduring a tough time under Antonio Conte, Porro says he is living the dream at Spurs and hopes his hard work continues to reward the team.

He said: "It was a giant step, in the end, I've been fighting for it all my life and it’s something very big.

"And I don't want to wake up from this dream, it is undoubtedly one of the best leagues in the world, if not the best.

"Being there every day is a gift for me for all the work I have been doing since I was little."

Porro will look to give Pep Guardiola a first-hand demonstration of his improvement when City visit the capital this month.