The best thing about Tottenham’s 2-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday may have been a cameo that lasted only a few minutes.

Luca Williams-Barnett was introduced late on for his Premier League debut, but the 18-year-old wasted little time showing why there is so much excitement around him at Hotspur Way.

The teenager looked fearless from the moment he came on. He took players on, showed the sort of close control and confidence that can unsettle defenders, and produced a superb piece of individual skill before driving towards the byline.

Williams-Barnett then delivered the ball across the face of goal for Mohammed Kudus, who somehow missed from close range. It should have been a dream first contribution in the Premier League for the academy graduate.

Williams-Barnett beat three Palace players before putting the chance on a plate for Kudus. It was a brief appearance, but an enormously encouraging one.

More game time needed

There has been a debate about whether Tottenham should send Williams-Barnett out on loan in January.

I previously argued Spurs should send Williams-Barnett out on loan as regular senior football is important at this stage of his development.

But this cameo should change the conversation.

Roberto De Zerbi has a young attacker who appears capable of bringing something different to his team.

Williams-Barnett has the confidence to take on opponents, the technique to beat them and the willingness to make things happen in the final third.

Those qualities are valuable in any side, but particularly one that will regularly come up against opponents defending deep.

Spurs need players who can create something from seemingly little, and the youngster offered a glimpse of that ability against Palace.

Of course, one lively substitute appearance does not mean he is ready to start Premier League matches every week. There is a difference between making an impact against tired defenders and delivering consistently over 90 minutes.

However, Williams-Barnett should remain part of De Zerbi’s first-team squad for the rest of the season. He can train with the senior group, learn from the experienced players around him and be introduced when games suit his strengths.