Alasdair Gold has revealed that Archie Gray has thoroughly impressed Ange Postecoglou and his coaching staff, backing the midfielder to play a crucial role throughout the season.
Gray gave a decent account of himself in his debut against Leicester City after coming on as a substitute in the latter part of the game, with that performance coming on the back of his impressive showing in the pre-season friendlies.
It was reported by The Athletic on Thursday morning that despite losing Oliver Skipp and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Postecoglou is not looking to add a number six to his squad, partly because of how impressive the former Leeds man has been.
Some Spurs fans might not like to hear that as they would feel the midfield is short of experience and proven quality at the highest level.
However, Gold believes that Gray is very much ready to shine in the Premier League, suggesting that he could make the number six position his own this season.
When asked if Tottenham will look to sign a defensive midfielder before the window closes, the journalist said on a Q&A on Football.London: “I think Spurs will continue to look at opportunities across the market in most positions, but I wouldn’t underestimate just how good Archie Gray is.
“I’ve been banging on about how talented he is all summer and he’s wowed Postecoglou and the coaching staff. He’s just won the Championship Young Player of the Year award this week. Y
“You don’t get that and play 52 times in that physical league without being ready for the hustle and bustle of the Premier League. He’s not some 18-year-old rookie just experiencing first-team football.
“He’s had a year’s worth of tough week-in, week-out exposure to it. I think he will see himself as an eight but I think he’s disciplined enough to play a big part as a six.”
Spurs Web Opinion
When Gray arrived, I suspect Ange’s idea would have primarily been to use him as Pedro Porro’s understudy this season.
However, looking at how comfortable the 18-year-old looks at this level, the Australian has now seemingly changed his mind, which is perhaps why he does not want to bring a number six through the door.
The post Alasdair Gold says one newcomer has already ‘wowed’ Postecoglou and his staff appeared first on The Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.