Tottenham Hotspur will hope that Xavi Simons steps up when it matters the most this season
Tottenham stunned the footballing world by securing Xavi Simons on a long-term deal from RB Leipzig. The Lilywhites had been considered outsiders in the race for the Dutchman’s signature, with Chelsea widely seen as favourites to land the 22-year-old. However, a proposed move to Stamford Bridge collapsed for various reason, opening the door for Spurs to swoop in.
Simons himself admitted that the opportunity to work under Thomas Frank was a major factor in his decision. The Lilywhites offered him regular game time at N17 and the chance to become the face of the project under the Danish tactician. That vision convinced the ex-PSG star to make the move to Hotspur Way and begin building his legacy in North London.
It is fair to say the Dutchman has quickly settled into life at Spurs. He registered his first assist of the season in the club’s 3-0 win over West Ham earlier this month and followed it up with an impressive cameo against Brighton, helping the Lilywhites battle back from 2-0 down to secure a hard-fought draw.
Xavi Simons is already making his mark at Tottenham
Thomas Frank has already realised that Simons’ talents are best utilised in a central role rather than out wide. The Brighton performance underlined how much more effective he is when surrounded by options. Blessed with superb vision and an outstanding passing range, the 22-year-old is capable of threading precise through balls behind opposition defences.
Acknowledging Simons’ natural ability to thrive in the #10 role, Thomas Frank highlighted the Dutchman’s three standout qualities. Speaking in his pre-match presser (as transcribed by Football.london), Frank said,
“I like his composure in possession. Every single time he receives the ball, it seems like he got half a second more before he passed it or took players on. So, I like that a lot. I think the way he also can see passes not many others are seeing, I think is important.”
The Spurs manager added,
“And also the way he carries the ball forward, I think is a key thing. Those are the big things, and then of course he will arrive and score goals and all that, but I think those three things are key areas.”
Thomas Frank believes Xavi Simons’ technical intelligence gives him extra time on the ball, while his passing range can unlock even the tightest of defences. The Dutchman also offers a constant threat with his progressive runs in the final third of the pitch.
The onus now falls on Frank to extract the very best from the former RB Leipzig star. There is no doubt Simons possesses immense untapped potential, and it is up to the Danish tactician to nurture that talent and help him flourish at N17 in the coming years.
