Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison, who has not played for the first team since the opening day of the Premier League season, featured for the under-21s on Tuesday night in a Jersey Mike’s Trophy tie at Cheltenham.

The 29-year-old Brazil international was left out of Spurs’ 25-man Premier League squad after failed transfer moves to Trabzonspor and Vasco da Gama, as well as collapsed talks with Everton.

Despite his uncertain future, Richarlison impressed fans and staff alike with his professionalism before, during, and after the match at The EV Charger Points Stadium.

He scored a first-time finish in the 56th minute of the 2-2 draw and later converted a penalty in the shootout, which Tottenham lost 7-6.

Richarlison said on Instagram: "Happy to do what I love the most in life.

"I was missing it!"

His positive attitude extended beyond the pitch, as he took time to sign autographs, pose for photos, and even sign autographs at the start of the second half.

He also shook the hand of Cheltenham’s young goalkeeper Mamadou Diallo after his successful penalty, earning praise from Robins boss Steve Cotterill.

After his goal, Tottenham’s academy players joined him in his trademark pigeon celebration, reflecting his influence on the younger squad members.

With Richarlison ineligible in the Premier League, attention will now turn to whether he will feature again for the under-21s on Sunday at home to Leicester.

The rest of the Tottenham squad, along with manager Roberto De Zerbi, are currently in Marbella for warm-weather training.