Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Erik Lamela has revealed that his 13-month injury layoff was "probably the worst time" of his life.

Lamela, who returned to action in Spurs' 2-1 defeat to Leicester City on Tuesday night after undergoing operations on both of his hips, had not played since October 25 last year.

The Argentine faced doubts about his chances of playing football again, but Lamela insisted that the low point in his career has passed.

"In really bad times, you always think the worst," the 25-year-old told the Evening Standard. "But my family was always with me and the supporters wanted me on the pitch.

"The past 13 months were crazy, it was probably the worst time of my life. I really wanted to play but my injury took too long. My family was always with me, my girlfriend always pushing me to be back. And of course it was hard to be so long out but it's football.

"I don't want to think about [the injury]. After a long time [out], I want the best for my club. I believe 100% in this team, I know the quality that we have."

Spurs' defeat to Leicester left them 13 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City after also dropping points against West Bromwich Albion last weekend.