Garth Crooks says a Tottenham Hotspur player could leave soon after enjoying a ‘flawless season’.
It’s been topsy turvy season in many ways for the North Londoners but on the balance of things, they’ve progressed under Ange Postecoglou’s leadership.
Having arrived from Celtic last summer, the Australian boss has clearly imprinted his philosophy and there are signs that it can work.
Evidently, Postecoglou needs further additions in the summer transfer window to take his side to the next level, though, Crooks fears that he might lose one of his star performers soon.
Garth Crooks says Micky van de Ven might leave
Crooks named Micky van de Ven in his BBC team of the week after his superb display against Burnley on the weekend.
He hailed the Dutch centre-back but noted that if Spurs fail to win trophies, he could depart for bigger and better things.
“Apart from the horror show at St James’ Park where Spurs were trounced by Newcastle and Micky van de Ven looked like he had skis on his feet instead of football boots, he’s had a flawless season,” Crooks said.
“Van de Ven is to Spurs what Saliba is to Arsenal, and that is irreplaceable at the moment. Quite apart from his pace and composure he takes his goals like an experienced striker. His finish against a Burnley side, who have spent far too much time this season indulging themselves in pretty football as opposed to being practical, was breathtakingly brilliant.
“The problem both Van de Ven and Saliba have is they are outstanding young defenders who are not currently winning any trophies and should that continue they won’t be at either club for very much longer.”
Micky van de Ven here to stay for now
Any idea of a van de Ven departure seems far too premature having only joined the club last summer, signing a contract running through until June 2029.
Unless a suitor puts down a world-record bid for a defender, it’s hard to imagine Spurs sanctioning a sale, anyhow.
Plus, Postecoglou’s side are evidently progressing and on an upward trajectory, so now doesn’t seem the time to depart North London.
