We seem to be giving strikers fifteen minute spots in the second half Lankshere definitely made the most of his cameo
A surprisingly interesting preseason game, even beyond the fun of seeing the two new youngsters. First half I thought Austin showed why he’s probably the standout between him and Whiteman. Some nice saves. Archie Gray looks a proper footballer too, so composed for a young man. CB unlikely to be his spot long term but I like what I saw. We know most of the others in that lineup pretty well but have to shout out Kulu for some nice moments and Donley for filling in adequately at LB. Second half was far more interesting. Djed Spence perhaps the most welcome surprise - if Ange has helped him get his head straight then we have a player there. Bergvall had a mixed half IMO. Doesn’t look like he’ll struggle with the physicality at all and his cross for the final goal was wicked, but he rushed things a bit and looks like he needs to find his rhythm in this team. I liked the look of Tyrese Hall, really liked Alfie Devine, and of course Will Lankshear and Mikey Moore. Phillips looks a unit but perhaps a bit of a mobility issue? Werner looked like he had a good half but definitely had to play himself into it, some of the combination play at the start was very rusty. Other than that, I’m probably least sold on Scarlett out of the strikers, and Whiteman out of the keepers. Djed Spence the real potential revelation of the day though. What a cameo. Hopefully more to come.
Great second half for the younger and lesser experienced team. Ironically one of the senior players - Emerson - the one to cost us a goal. Spence MOTM. Ability was never questioned albeit attitude was but that showing alone should make Ange realise there’s something to be gained keeping him in the squad. It’s mental how much better than Emerson he is and it’d save us spending north of £20m for another FB. Great seeing Moore, Lankshear and Phillips grab goals too. Our youth/ young players are potentially the best crop we’ve had, really hope we don’t waste it.
Ange on Spence: "Djed did well. He has had a tough couple of years. He is training with us & I think with all of the players when they are here with us I treat them as Tottenham players unless something suddenly changes." ——— Any redemption arc seems dead judging by that statement. That wording isn’t what you’d use if a player was in his plans. A shame in a way, there’s a clear baller in there, stole the show today.
A huge shame as there is definitely a player somewhere in there, and one who would seemingly suit Ange's system to a tee.
Also: the new kit actually looks semi decent in the flesh, albeit only when worn by people who look after themselves and are in good shape. On the rest of us I'm sure it will still look like pyjamas.
I am pretty sure that the property that Ange values the highest is commitment though. Spence might be more skilful than Emerson but Emerson has done everything Ange has asked without making a fuss.
I'm not blaming Ange. If successive managers essentially banish a player and reports of a bad attitude follow that player on their first loan, it is usually the player's fault and their responsibility to dig deep and put things right. The shame is that Djed could have the world at his feet, but his attitude seems to be holding him back.
