Mathys Tel has already proven his worth at Tottenham this season despite limited game time
Despite playing a crucial role in helping Tottenham secure an unlikely draw against Manchester United last weekend, prolific forward Mathys Tel remains underutilised by Thomas Frank this season. The Frenchman has started only three Premier League matches, with Frank continuing to prefer Richarlison in attack. This decision has raised questions among supporters, especially given the team’s inconsistent league form.
It is fair to say that Tel has yet to fully convince the Danish tactician. Frank’s choice to start Richarlison ahead of him against United surprised many fans, particularly after the Brazilian’s poor showing against Copenhagen in the Champions League just days earlier. However, Tel once again demonstrated his potential, proving that he is ready to make his mark this season if given a consistent run of games.
The 20-year-old was greeted with boos from sections of the crowd when he replaced Xavi Simons in the 79th minute against United. But he silenced his critics in the best possible way, scoring the equaliser just four minutes later. It was a superbly taken goal, as he controlled Destiny Udogie’s low cross, turned sharply, and fired the ball past Senne Lammens with composure and precision.
Tottenham must include Mathys Tel in their UCL squad following Kolo Muani’s injury
Frank raised eyebrows earlier this season when he left Mathys Tel out of Tottenham’s Champions League squad for the group-stage fixtures. The omission came as a major surprise, considering the Frenchman had only just joined from Bayern Munich on a permanent deal in the summer. However, Tel could now be handed a route back into European action following Randal Kolo Muani’s unfortunate injury.
Kolo Muani fractured his jaw in a collision with Manchester United defender Harry Maguire and is expected to be sidelined for several months. In light of that setback, former Tottenham scout Bryan King has urged the club to add Tel to the Champions League squad as Muani’s replacement for the remaining group-stage matches. Speaking to Tottenham News, King said,
“Frank must add him (Tel) to the squad. Centre forward is one of the main positions, and if you’re going to lose one of your main men there, then I would certainly be looking to bring him in. That decision has got to be made after the international break. It’ll be very frustrating for Frank, but if Kolo Muani is out with a broken jaw, then it has to be done.”
King wants Thomas Frank to add Mathys Tel to the Champions League squad following Kolo Muani’s injury. The ex-scout believes the Lilywhites are lacking serious firepower up front, so adding the Frenchman makes total sense. That said, King also claims that the Danish tactician will decide once the international break is over and the timeframe for Muani’s injury is confirmed.
To his credit, Tel has shown an excellent attitude since being dropped from the European squad. The young forward has continued to train and perform with determination, making it clear that he is intent on proving his worth at N17. For that reason alone, the 20-year-old deserves an opportunity to feature in Europe as Tottenham push to secure qualification for the knockout stages.
Kolo Muani’s absence could ultimately work in Tel’s favour. After being linked with a potential January exit following his Champions League omission, the Frenchman has responded with courage and hard work, fighting his way back into contention. His persistence now appears set to pay off if Thomas Frank confirms his inclusion in the squad for the remaining group-stage fixtures.
