Mauricio Pochettino has claimed Dele Alli was 'unlucky' to be caught swearing as cameras showed the midfielder making an offensive gesture during England's 2-1 win over Slovakia at Wembley.
Alli was clocked raising his middle finger, but insists it was a joke between himself and ex-Spurs teammate Kyle Walker.
The 21-year-old has been criticised for his on-field discipline since bursting on to the scene, but Pochettino claims his recent behaviour has been 'fantastic'.
"Dele Alli has improved a lot from last season and his behaviour is fantastic," the Argentine said in his press conference ahead of Tottenham's trip to Everton. "That was a joke with a teammate.
"He (Alli) was unlucky because the camera recorded that moment."
Pochettino also provided an injury update on Erik Lamela, saying: "We expect early October to join the team and to start the possibility to join the team and train every day. We are happy.”
Spurs will be without Victor Wanyama at Everton, while Pochettino reiterated Toby Alderweireld is happy to stay in north London.