Tottenham’s Left-Back dilemma: Could Milos kerkez Be the Solution?
Tottenham Hotspur’s left-back situation has been a talking point this season. Destiny Udogie, the promising young talent, has been sidelined due to injury, leaving Ange Postecoglou with limited options. While Archie Gray has stepped in admirably, his natural position is in midfield, and Djed Spence, though capable, is primarily a right-back. This has resulted in Sergio Reguilon, who many thought was surplus to requirements, unexpectedly getting valuable playing time.
Reguilon’s performance in the FA cup victory over Tamworth, were he shone alongside Gray and Yves Bissouma, highlighted the need for depth at left-back.
Ideally, Tottenham would have a competitive battle for the starting spot, allowing Spence and Pedro Porro to focus on the right-back position and freeing up Gray to return to midfield.
One name that has emerged as a potential solution is Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. according to journalist Ben Jacobs, speaking on the Last Word on spurs Podcast, Tottenham are interested in the Hungarian international, along with Manchester United. However, Bournemouth are reportedly demanding a hefty fee of over £40 million, making a January move unlikely.
The summer transfer window could present a more realistic chance. Kerkez recently changed agents, and Manchester United’s pursuit of PSG’s Nuno Mendes could open the door for Tottenham.
Kerkez’s attacking style might initially seem at odds with Postecoglou’s tactical approach, but recent games have shown a shift towards utilizing full-backs in a more conventional manner.
The success of former Bournemouth players like nathan ake at Manchester City and Callum Wilson at Newcastle United before his injury woes, suggests that the Cherries can produce Premier League quality talent.
Only time will tell if Kerkez will be the next Bournemouth star to make a prosperous move to North London.
Could Milos Kerkez Solve TottenhamS Left-Back Quandary?
Joining us today on the sporTEC Loudspeaker is former Premier League defender and current analyst, Stuart pearce. Stuart, thanks for taking the time.
Stuart: Absolutely, always happy to chat football.
Moderator: Let’s dive right in. Tottenham’s left-back situation has been a bit…turbulent this season. Destiny Udogie’s injury has left Postecoglu with limited options.We’ve seen Archie Gray fill in admirably, but he’s not a natural left-back, and Djed Spence is more cozy on the right.Sergio Reguilon seems to be getting a reprieve, but long-term, is he the answer?
Stuart: I wouldn’t say Reguilon is the long-term solution, no.He’s a decent squad player, but Tottenham need a genuine, first-choice left-back who can compete with Udogie when he returns.
moderator: So, the rumour mill is churning, and Milos Kerkez’s name keeps popping up. Bournemouth’s youngster, a real attacking threat, apparently on Tottenham’s radar.Do you think he’d be a good fit for Postecoglou’s system?
Stuart: Well, initially, you’d think Kerkez’s attacking style might not be ideal for postecoglou’s system, which emphasizes a more balanced approach from full-backs. However, we’ve seen a slight shift recently towards utilizing full-backs in a more conventional attacking manner.
Moderator: Right, that makes sense. Some might say, however, that £40 million for a relatively untested player is a bit steep.
Stuart: It’s certainly a lot of money. But remember, Bournemouth have proven they can develop Premier League-quality talent. look at Nathan Ake at City, Callum Wilson at newcastle – they both came through the ranks at Bournemouth.
Moderator: Could Kerkez be the next one? fascinating point. Now, from a tactical perspective, how do you see Kerkez fitting in?
Stuart: If Spurs were to sign him, he’d offer that attacking threat down the left flank.
He has pace, he loves to dribble, and he’s got a decent cross on him. He could definitely add another dimension to Tottenham’s attack.
Though,defensively,he’ll need to improve. He’s still young, but he needs to sharpen up his positional awareness and tackling at this level.
Moderator: So, weighing the pros and cons, do you think Milos Kerkez is the right answer for Tottenham?
Stuart: He has the potential, that’s without a doubt. But it’s a big fee, and there are questions about his defensive capabilities.
Personally, I think Tottenham should wait until the summer window. Have another look at him, assess his progress further. Maybe by then, the price tag will be a bit more manageable.
Moderator: Makes sense. Well Stuart,thank you for your insights. It’s a situation to watch closely, for sure.And to our readers, what are your thoughts? could Milos Kerkez be the left-back solution Tottenham are searching for? Let us know in the comments below.