2 hours ago
26
A pundit back in the Netherlands has delivered a harsh verdict on Tottenham’s Xavi Simons, despite his Man of the Match performance in the Champions League.
Tottenham Hotspur have yet to see Xavi Simons hit full stride since his move from RB Leipzig.
There have been flashes of promise from the Dutchman in a Tottenham shirt, but those moments have often been overshadowed by inconsistent displays.
The 22-year-old has managed just two assists for Tottenham since his £51 million move and is still searching for his first goal for the club.
For a player of his technical quality, the adaptation to the Premier League has not been as seamless as many had anticipated.
Pundit questions Xavi Simons’ physicality after poor Tottenham display
Simons’ performance against Chelsea was one of his least convincing in a Spurs shirt, as he replaced Lucas Bergvall early in the first half but was withdrawn just after the hour mark.
Pundit Johan Derksen has been particularly critical of the Tottenham man, and he once again took aim at Simons’ criticising his lack of physicality.
Introducing his comments, Derksen suggested that while Simons possesses technical ability, he lacks the physical edge required to thrive in English football.
He told Vandaag Inside (as relayed by Soccer News): “That Simons, he is physically incompetent. In England, they are all skilled on the ball and can all play football, but you also need physical strength.
“Tijjani Reijnders has that, and so do the guys at Liverpool, but Simons is getting lost in the onslaught. Simply because he is physically incompetent.”
Xavi Simons still adapting to Premier League demands
It is becoming clear that the physical intensity of the Premier League is something Simons is still struggling to come to terms with, as he often fails to ride challenges or hold off contact.
The league is unforgiving, and for a player like Simons, it is proving difficult to adapt despite his natural technical quality and flair in possession.
The Dutchman showed glimpses of his talent in Tottenham’s Champions League tie against Copenhagen, where he registered an assist and picked up the player of the match award.
Yet, that display was not followed up in Spurs’ next league fixture against Manchester United, where Simons once again found it difficult to cope with the pace and physicality of the game.
Have something to tell us about this article?
English (US) ·