Claudio Ranieri had high praise for defender Mats Hummels tonight.It was the German veteran who helped lead the team back against Tottenham in a thrilling 2-2 draw in London.

After the match, Ranieri lauded Hummels’ performance which was also marked by a penalty on Son in the first half.

“It’s one of those penalty kicks where whoever gets there first wins,” said Ranieri. The referee didn’t whistle it and he was called by VAR, these are things that happen.”

“Hummels is working hard in training and played a game full of substance and determination, showing the whole team how to play calmly.”

After two months spent on the sidelines due to technical decisions made by first Daniele De Rossi and then Ivan Juric, the veteran centreback took the stage and led Roma to a late equalizer against Tottenham in the Europa League.

Hummels was given the opportunity to start for the Giallorossi for the first time since joining the club as a free agent in September.

After playing 45 minutes against Napoli on Sunday, Hummels featured in Claudio Ranieri’s line-up and played the whole match in London, scoring a vital goal at the 92nd minute of playing time.This could signal an important moment in the German’s complicated spell at Roma.

“It’s not easy to play against the sprinters of Tottenham, they’re a team full of pace,” he added.

“Hummels deserved the goal because he fought like a lion until the end.”