Former West Ham United striker Dean Ashton believes Tottenham Hotspur star Oliver Skipp was a lucky boy against Burnley
In conversation with Quest (h/t Football.London), former English footballer Dean Aston believes that Tottenham Hotspur star Oliver Skipp should have been sent off for a rash tackle on Dwight McNeil. This incident took place in the latest EFL Cup tie against Burnley.
The 21-year-old English midfielder has been a revelation for them this season. He was sent on a loan spell with Norwich City last season which seems to have done a world of good for his development. He played 47 games for the Canaries across all competitions during which time he scored one goal and provided two assists.
Skipp has become a regular starter under Nuno Espirito Santo and created a formidable partnership with Pierre-Emile Højbjerg in the middle of the pitch. He seems to be eager and hungry to get on the ball and make a difference with the North Londoners.
Ashton spoke about the English professional footballer and a tackle he made on the night. He also highlighted that the tackle on McNeil was rough and worthy of a sending off:
“Just a bit. This is a red card. Yes he [Skipp] is challenging for the ball, but ultimately, he has rode over the ball and he has got a straight leg into [Dwight] McNeil’s ankle. That is to me a clear red card, but there wasn’t a foul given, play just continued and no wonder McNeil was in pain there.”
The youngster has already collected 3 yellow cards in 9 Premier League games so far. While he possesses great drive and determination, the intensity and manner of his challenges can be questioned at times. He has been a resolute figure in the middle of the pitch.
Keith Hackett is a former Premier League referee who shared his concern regarding Skipp earlier in the month. He spoke about the 21-year-old and suggested that Tottenham could get a referee from the PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Board) to help him throw a little caution to the wind.
Hackett also highlighted that he used this trick with Marouane Fellaini during his Everton days. The Hertfordshire-born player seems to have become really mature for his age but could do with a little more composure. In an otherwise rocky season, the young midfielder has been a breath of fresh air.
More Tottenham Hotspur News
- Manchester United release an early update ahead of the trip to Tottenham Hotspur
- Some fans react on Twitter as Tottenham Hotspur beat Burnley in the Round of 16 of the EFL Cup
- Former Spurs star Teddy Sheringham urges Harry Kane to up his game at Tottenham Hotspur
The Tottenham faithful will be hoping that Oliver can continue his progress in the same manner. The management would also be hoping that he can keep away from such risky and rash tackles in the future.