Sean Dyche says Dele Alli is going beyond his duties as a player at Everton despite being out injured.
The former Tottenham and England star is currently sidelined with a groin issue and no date has been given for his return.
But while he recovers, Alli is trying his hand at something new at Finch Farm.
According to Everton manager Sean Dyche, the midfielder has been making observations to his boss about how the team has been playing, almost like a makeshift coach.
Dyche even said he can see similarities with Tottenham under Mauricio Pochettino.
The manager, clearly impressed, has then shared Alli’s opinions with the squad, suggesting the former England midfielder could have a future in coaching.
The 27-year-old bravely opened up on his childhood trauma and impact on his mental health earlier in an interview with Gary Neville this year, receiving an out pour of support as a result.
But his manager says Alli has greatly benefited from doing that interview, as he can now put all his energy into football.
Dyche said: “‘I don’t think he would mind me sharing that there probably was a period when [his career] was drifting for him.
“He had a lot going on. Once that came out, it has allowed him the chance to focus on his football and he has been very involved in terms of absorbing.
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“He can’t get out on the grass with us yet but he is looking at it and he is absorbing what the input from myself and the staff has been.
“He is clear minded now. It was very difficult what he was going through, of course. We know that. But he is very willing to share, give an opinion.
“It’s a case of us having a coffee in the canteen. You’ll say ‘hey, Dele, how is it going? What are your thoughts?’ He’ll point out little things. ‘I thought that, I thought this.’ It’s just a natural combination where we like players to share a view.”
Dyche will no doubt be hoping having a player like Alli that has a Champions League final and 37 England caps including a World Cup semi-final under his belt will be a huge boost both on and off the pitch for his side.
The Toffees are currently 16th in the league, five points above the relegation zone.
Alli hasn’t played a game since February whilst on loan at Besiktas, with his time cut short there due to injury. His last appearance for Everton came in the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa last August.