Xavi Simons is still finding his feet at Tottenham Hotspur following a high-profile switch in the summer
Tottenham shocked the footballing world in the summer after landing Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig on a long-term deal. The Dutchman was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea for majority of the transfer window, with the player accepting personal terms with the Blues as well. However, the deal fell through for some reason, giving the Lilywhites a chance to swoop in and lure him to N17 instead.
One of the key factors behind Simons’ decision was the chance to work under Thomas Frank. The Danish tactician has a reputation for developing talent and helping players fulfil their potential. According to the 22-year-old, Frank laid out a clear pathway for his growth, showing exactly how he intended to refine the Dutchman’s game and elevatehim to the next level.
The Spurs No.7 also made a good first impression on his debut for the club when they faced West Ham United in the Premier League. He was operating on the left-flank and managed to grab an assist that proved to be vital as the Lilywhites ended the day with all three points on enemy territory.
Xavi Simons to play on the wing for Tottenham going forward?
Still, not all fans are convinced Spurs will see the best of him if Frank continues to deploy him out wide. Many believe the Dutchman is at his most dangerous in the #10 role, where his vision, creativity, and technical intelligence shine brightest. Instead, the Danish tactician has preferred using Lucas Bergvall in the advanced central role, which has raised concerns among sections of the Tottenham fanbase.
To Bergvall’s credit, he has excelled since stepping into the role. That is precisely why Ian Darke believes Frank will stick with the young Swede as his first-choice attacking midfielder, leaving Simons to occupy the left-wing position. Speaking to Tottenham News, Darke said,
“I thought with Bergvall, the moment I saw him in the Tottenham shirt last season, he looked like a good player. He’s an eye-catching talent, and he went from strength-to-strength last season and became an important player for Tottenham.”
The iconic commentator added,
“So I think he holds on to that shirt, and Simons will probably have to make do with the place on the left side for the time being.”
Ian Darke clearly rates Lucas Bergvall highly, stating that the Sweden international has taken some huge strides during his time at Tottenham. The iconic commentator believes the 19-year-old cannot be dropped right now due to his excellent form after becoming an important player under Thomas Frank. And as a result of that, Darke insists that Xavi Simons will be forced to play on left-flank if he wants to play regularly for the Lilywhites.
Even so, there is little doubt that Tottenham would see the very best of Xavi Simons if he were allowed to operate in his natural #10 position. His cameo against Brighton was a strong reminder of that, as he looked most effective when he had options around and could dictate play closer to goal. With his vision and technical ability, the 22-year-old seems tailor-made for the role – leaving Spurs fans eager to see him given the opportunity to flourish where he belongs.
