The defender has been brilliant in starts against two strong Premier League opponents, with Pochettino giving him ample opportunity to impress alongside the more experienced centre-backs like Thiago Silva and Trevoh Chalobah.

After he got his hands on the pre-season trophy, he spoke to the media on life on tour so far.

‘I really enjoyed it out there [against Fulham]. We have had a good few games, and we have been building. It is nice to win the trophy to start off the season. It builds confidence, we have already got that winning mentality, and we want to push on and do well, and that has given us a bit more confidence ahead of the season,’ he said, smiling throughout.

‘My pre-season has been really positive. I came into pre-season not expecting anything, just work hard and see what happens. I have come out of it with a lot of minutes which has been good, and pleasing.’

Bashir also spoke of how development squad coach Mark Robinson has remained in contact.

‘Pochettino has been helping me, giving me little details and telling me he is happy with me personally. I have also been on the phone to the Under-21s coach [Robinson], and he wants me to pass on good messages [to the other academy lads].’

Life in the first-team camp means superstars and World Cup winners are in full force. He paid special praise to Enzo Fernandez.

‘Enzo is top. I haven’t known him long, only a few weeks as he joined up later, he is a really friendly guy and I was joking with him the other day that he is always in front of me wanting the ball.’