Can Parrott rise to the challenge at N17?
Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a move to sign a new striker in the summer transfer window, and former Spurs defender Alan Hutton acknowledges that academy prospect Troy Parrott is not the solution to Ange Postecoglou’s number nine problem during the summer transfer window.
Troy Parrott comes into the off-season on the back of an exceptional season on loan with Eredivisie side Excelsior Rotterdam, with the 22-year-old ending the campaign with a magnificent goal-scoring tally of 17 goals while also laying a further five assists. He scored a hat trick in the final match of the season to earn a 4-1 win over NEC Breda as Excelsior Rotterdam bid for their survival in the Eredivisie relegation in the playoff. While this did not prove enough, they still got relegated on an aggregate tally of 7-6.
During his spell on loan, we have seen a glimpse of his mentality and goal-scoring prowess as the Hotspur Way graduate went from merely a squad role at his temporary employers to a starter throughout the season.
Spurs need more than Parrott to replace Kane
His magnificent form suggested that he could be handed another chance at White Hart Lane before a final decision is made on his future, while the club aims for a new number nine at N17 this summer. However, Hutton believes that the 22-year-old doesn’t have what it takes to replace Harry Kane at White Hart Lane.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Tottenham News, Hutton said:
“I’m not sure, but of course, he’s a good player. It’s no slight on him because he’s shown that he can go and score goals, and he’s an international footballer, but is he going to be that guy who will come in, be the new Harry Kane, and score 20 to 25 goals every single season?
“Is he going to score in the Champions League when they get there? Is he going to be that go-to guy? I’m not sure he is, as it sits.
“I hope he goes and proves me wrong. I hope he goes, gets his opportunity, and scores a barrel load. But I’m just thinking, as it is at this moment in time, I don’t see him doing that. That’s the reason they’re looking at strikers; Ange will know better than I will, but Parrott will have an opportunity, and it’s just whether he can grasp it or not.”
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With Richarlison set to stay, complemented by Heung-Min Son and Timo Werner’s ability to deputize in the number nine position, it looks difficult for opportunities to come Parott’s way. It is to be seen if he stays at White Hart Lane beyond this summer.
