Belgium head coach Roberto Martinez was "very convinced" by Toby Alderweireld's return to Tottenham after two months out with the World Cup looming.
Standard Sport understands Spurs have decided to sell the commanding centre-back after failing to come to an agreement over a contract extension, prompting his exclusion from the team much like Kyle Walker last season.
Martinez had warned Alderweireld that he must play for Spurs before the end of the season to cement his spot at the tournament in Russia, having played just twice between November and mid-April.
But the Belgian head coach was impressed with how Alderweireld played as Tottenham drew 1-1 with Brighton.
"His return to the competition on Tuesday night, it was a huge satisfaction," he told L'Avenir.
"More than just relief. He showed patience, and his return was very convincing. It’s like he never left the team. He showed great maturity."
Alderweireld will sit out the weekend FA Cup semi-final due to his expected summer departure.
