In Tottenham’s opening pre-season game against Scottish side, Hearts, Ange Postecoglou named a shock starting eleven with new 18-year-old signing, Archie Gray, being utilised as a centre-back despite never playing there at senior level.
Tottenham announced the signing of Archie Gray earlier this month following Brentford’s failed pursuit of the 18-year-old, who Spurs had been rumoured to be interested in for some time. (Evening Standard)
Leeds United’s star academy product joined Postecoglou’s Tottenham after the North London side met a release clause in Gray’s deal which came into fruition after The Whites failed to win promotion from the Championship.
The deal for the 18-year-old was believed to be £40 million with Joe Rodon moving to Yorkshire permanently for around £10 million. (BBC Sport)
Gray was deployed by Leeds manager, Daniel Farke, in a collection of positions as the breakthrough star featured 52 times last season in all competitions. Archie Gray was played mainly as a central midfielder or right-back with his quick passing and impressive defensive ability making him suitable for either role. (TransferMarkt)
Upon signing for Tottenham, Archie Gray acknowledged his ability to play in various positions explaining, ‘I see myself as a midfielder as my ideal position, but I don’t put myself down to one position’ concluding that he is a ‘versatile player and can play in a lot of positions on the pitch’.
Postecoglou certainly put Gray’s closing statement of ‘I’m not bothered where I play, I’m just going to give 100% and that’s all that matters’ to the test on Wednesday, playing the teenager at centre-back, where the ex-Leeds man still impressed. (@SpursOfficial on X)
When asked about the unusual position switch Gray explained: “I wasn’t expecting to play centre back but I’m really grateful for the opportunity to play and learn different positions
“I don’t really care where I play. I’m 18 years old and I need to learn the game, anywhere he puts me, I’m just happy to learn the game and have great teammates around me to teach me things about the game”. (Tottenham Hotspur)
Gray’s comments were incredibly impressive and spoke to the 18-year-old’s maturity, making it understandable why it’s been reported that Gray has impressed his new manager already despite only being a Spurs player for two weeks. (Football.London)
Spurs Web opinion
Archie Gray’s response to being played completely out of position in his first outing in a Spurs shirt was very impressive and continues the trend of Gray coming across as mature and hard-working, which is exactly the right profile for a young player to fulfil his potential.
Gray’s impressive performance at the heart of defence displayed also just how versatile the teenager is, an attribute which is likely to see Gray handed plenty of minutes next season.
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