Tottenham attacker Xavi Simons managed to show glimpses of his potential against Leeds United
After three consecutive Premier League draws, Tottenham finally returned to winning ways – and did so in style. The Lilywhites earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory away to Leeds United, with goals from Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel securing all three points and closing the gap at the top of the league table to just points.
While Tel and Kudus rightfully received the headlines for their decisive contributions, another player quietly stole the spotlight with a standout display in midfield. Xavi Simons, deployed in the No.10 role, finally showcased the creativity and technical brilliance that Tottenham fans had been waiting to see. Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, the Dutchman was instrumental in linking play and driving the team forward in the final third.
Simons’ start to life at N17 has been somewhat underwhelming, though not without reason. Thomas Frank had often used the 22-year-old out wide on the left — a role that limited his influence. However, the Danish tactician made a key tactical switch at Elland Road, handing Simons a start in his natural attacking midfield position. The result was immediate and impressive.
Xavi Simons showed why he is better suited as a #10 at Tottenham
There had always been an unrealistic expectation among some Tottenham fans for Xavi Simons to make an instant impact at N17 after his summer arrival. But, as is often the case in football, adapting to a new team and system takes time. Against Leeds United, the ex-RB Leipzig star finally gave supporters a glimpse of his full potential. It is no coincidence that his best performance for the Lilywhites came when he was trusted to operate centrally, orchestrating attacks and finding dangerous pockets of space.
The Danish tactician also pointed out how good the 22-year-old was as an attacking midfielder. Speaking in his post-match presser (as transcribed by Football.london), Frank said,
“I think it looked promising today at times. I liked Xavi as a ten. I think that was his best game for us. There’s still more to come, but I think he had some really good actions in there.”
Thomas Frank had come under scrutiny in recent weeks for not using Simons in his preferred position. However, his display at Elland Road vindicated the decision to ease him into the system gradually. The 22-year-old was at the heart of Tottenham’s attacking play – connecting midfield and attack, finding spaces between the lines, and consistently looking to unlock the Leeds defence. His intelligence, movement, and vision offered Spurs the creativity they have often lacked against compact, defensive sides.
Moving forward, it seems clear that Simons’ future lies in the #10 role. He possesses all the attributes to thrive there – close control, composure, awareness, and the ability to create chances in tight spaces. If Thomas Frank continues to trust him in this position, the Dutchman could soon become one of Tottenham’s most influential players and a key component of their attacking identity.