Tottenham have received a huge boost in recent weeks with the return of their new number eight, Harry Winks. The young midfielder’s injury struggles began in April 2017 after suffering ankle ligament damage. Despite returning early last season, persistent ankle pain forced him to miss much of the season.
Pictures released on Winks’ personal Instagram, as well as the Tottenham Twitter page, have shown Winks to be back in training. When the Englishman will make his comeback remains to be seen, however, a return to training will have fans excited. In a turbulent period consisting of a distinct lack of signings, as well as additional stadium delays, news of this sort is certainly refreshing.
Harry Winks Near to Long-Awaited Return
Before the Injury
Such a lengthy spell on the sidelines can make it easy to forget the impact Winks had last season. Whilst Moussa Dembele deservedly picked up plaudits for his second half of the season performances, it was Harry Winks who was initially making the headlines.
Particularly, the Champions League fixtures against Real Madrid caught the eye of the masses. Aged 21, playing in only his second season as a first-team squad member, Winks looked comfortable against Kroos and Modric.
His pinpoint defence-splitting pass in the build-up to Dele Alli’s opener was one any midfielder would be proud of. The confidence exuded, pass accuracy and ability to take on an opponent as well put in a tackle, were all qualities that showed Winks to be ahead of his years. They also led to his nickname of ‘little Iniesta’, branded by Pochettino.
World Cup Woes
The midfielder’s performances resulted in a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad. Winks made the most of this opportunity with a debut man of the match display against Lithuania.
Southgate was delighted with the ‘Real calm’ and ‘excellent use of the ball’ exhibited by the debutant. At this stage, Winks’ World Cup chances seemed promising. Injuries eventually quashed this dream, however, Winks will hope to replicate this form upon his return.
Important Squad Member
The return is vitally important for the balance of the squad. It is no secret that Moussa Dembele’s physical attributes are in decline. On his day, Dembele is rivalled by few. However, a competitor and an eventual successor is essential.
Tottenham have Dier and Wanyama (when fit) competing for the role of defensive midfielder. Moussa Sissoko somewhat divides opinion. However, the combination of Sissoko alongside a defensive midfielder certainly does not work. The team become too slow and pedestrian.
It is therefore pivotal that Spurs have the adequate personnel to compete with or cover a potentially unfit Moussa Dembele. Whilst Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen can drop deeper if needed, they are more effective further up the pitch.
Welcome Back, Harry
Harry Winks’ return will be welcomed by management and fans alike. Not only a player gleaming with quality but one that has come up through the ranks. A return to full fitness and form would be a great sight to see for the fans, and a significant boost to the squad.
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