The quality of the Tottenham squad has, in recent years, been recognised by the footballing world. Champions League football, as well as three consecutive top three Premier League finishes, have put a spotlight on Tottenham. Much of the squad have been showered in praise. The likes of Harry Kane, Christian Eriksen and Jan Vertonghen deservedly fall into this category. However, a player that has often been on the other end of the spectrum is Erik Lamela.
Criticism has followed the Argentinian since his highly anticipated transfer to Tottenham in 2013. However, the quality he possesses is undeniable. Determined, creative and skilful – is Lamela the most underrated player at Tottenham?
Erik Lamela: Tottenham’s Unsung Hero
His Story
Incredibly, Lamela is entering his sixth season in a Tottenham shirt. Whilst the Argentinian has always divided opinion, a sense there is more to come is forever prevalent.
First, it was the Argentinian connection with Pochettino that would bring out the best in Lamela. After a couple of “transitional seasons” (let’s give him the benefit of the doubt), a bright start to the 2016-17 season, marked by a positive pre-season and followed by an opening day goal, also promised improvement. However, a hip injury in October ruled him out until the end of November the next year.
Lamela made an immediate impact on his return, assisting Kane within two minutes of his arrival. He followed this up with a series of impressive performances, which eventually led to a four-year contract extension. Energetic and creative, Lamela proved he was a valuable member of the squad.
After missing the first game of the season through injury, Lamela has once again raised hopes that this could be his year. A phenomenal run and pass that set up Harry Kane’s first-ever August goal acted as a further reminder of the midfielder’s quality. Tottenham fans will hope for an injury free season that will allow Lamela to flourish.
The Quality of Erik Lamela
So, what makes Lamela underrated, rather than simply just not at the required standard? It’s the skill and creativity that set him apart from other members of the squad.
Any Premier League player can hit the top corner from 25 yards. However, how many have the skill to curl in a rabona from twenty? Not many. This is the obvious example, but there’s many more.
The midfielder always looks to get the ball forward. He can beat a man, score a stunner, score a header, thread a perfectly weighted through ball – and no one is better at pointlessly gaining a yellow card. In all seriousness, Lamela possesses a widespread of talents that make him a key member of the squad.
Incredible Work Rate
Something that is often overlooked is the impressive fitness levels displayed by Tottenham’s number eleven. Regardless of regular game time, or even a year-long layoff, Lamela always seems match fit.
The midfielder does not stop running, from the first minute to last. Fault Lamela on his performance, but never his attitude. It’s a quality that appeals to both the fans and Pochettino, who can utilise Lamela as a key component of his pressing game.
Competitors for the Most Underrated Player
Another player perhaps doesn’t pick up the plaudits he deserves in Ben Davies. The full-back is often overlooked as he isn’t as exciting as Kieran Trippier or an on-form Danny Rose.
However, the Welshman has come on leaps and bounds since his transfer to Tottenham. Davies is now a reliable option at the back. It says something that Danny Rose can’t regain his place in the team.
Eric Dier is another that often gets overlooked. He has played (to a good level) at right back, centre back and in central midfield during his time at Tottenham. Since 2015, Dier has featured in no less than 34 Premier League games in each campaign.
He epitomises the phrase ‘you don’t know what you had until he’s gone’. Always willing to get on the ball, and even more so to put in a challenge. The Englishman has been an ever-present in Pochettino’s starting eleven, and an instrumental part of his Tottenham transformation.
Due to what he can offer, in comparison to the opinion held by many, Erik Lamela is arguably the most underrated player in the squad. There are certainly arguments for others to hold the prestigious title, however. It would be interesting to hear what the fans think.
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