‘Frightening’… Pundit amazed by ‘outstandin Tottenham player’s display against Everton
Stephen Kelly has lauded Micky van de Ven despite Tottenham Hotspur being denied a victory against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday.
Ange Postecoglou’s side will feel incredibly deflated after coming away from Merseyside with just a draw. A late goal for the home side earned the Toffees a share of the points.
Tottenham can take some positives from the result. Richarlison did brilliantly once again to score twice against his former club. Meanwhile, a number of players will be closer to being fully fit again after spending time out injured.
Micky van de Ven frightening for Tottenham at Everton
One of those still working his way back is Micky van de Ven. The centre-back made his third league appearance since returning from injury.
Van de Ven has been one of the best defenders in the Premier League so far this season. And speaking on Spurs Play, Stephen Kelly suggested that he was amazed by the Dutchman’s display against Everton this weekend.
“As a player, a fan, when you’re in that situation, it’s very hard not to feel deflated when you concede so late on against a goal that’s scrappy, there’s potential offsides, there’s loads about it. And it’s not like they’ve pulled you apart and created a great chance. They’ve just flung the ball into the box, got bodies in there and it’s ended up in the back of the net which is difficult to take,” he said.
“But Tottenham are going to have to look at the things they did well. Away from home when they created opportunities. Maddison getting in that pocket, he’s still coming back to fitness. Bentancur, getting back to fitness. Sarr, getting on the pitch after being away. Van de Ven was frightening in the game. I thought he was outstanding.”
A revelation
Obviously, there will be a concern over the fact that Tottenham conceded two goals from set-pieces. They have looked defensively vulnerable at times.
But it is remarkable how quickly van de Ven has adapted to life in the Premier League following his move from the Bundesliga in the summer. Cristian Romero was something of a liability last season. But he has looked a lot more assured over the course of this campaign. And van de Ven has to take a lot of the credit for that.
It certainly appears that Tottenham have secured themselves a special talent.
