Tottenham under Mauricio Pochettino has developed a very young and energetic team. A young vibrant squad, smooth and quick flowing football has made White Hart Lane an exciting prospect for footballers to consider joining. The Argentine has looked for value in the market rather than star names and when he did bring in a big-name player this summer in the form of Moussa Sissoko, things haven’t gone that well.
With the January window close by, we take a look at three underrated players, the unsung heroes who have consistently been dishing out strong performances but never quite grabbing the attention, that could strengthen this Spurs squad:
Scott Dann
One of the most under-rated defenders in English football, Scott Dann is a model professional without any doubt. Dann is one of the most consistent players at Crystal Palace and is regarded as one of the finest centre-backs by manager Alan Pardew.
“Scott has been really underestimated throughout his career, but now I manage him I realise how good he is”, Pardew said in the defender’s praise.
The 28-year old has brought to Palace by Tony Pulis in 2014 and since then, Dann has become a vital member of the team. A no-nonsense defender, he is always strong in his challenges and is one of the very few old-school defenders around. Always a threat from set-pieces, he can chip in with valuable goals as well. Over the past two years, he has established himself as one of the most accomplished defenders in the country and with Spurs needing cover at centre-back, Dann could be the perfect signing for them.
Charlie Austin
Austin has had a huge impact for Southampton this season having struggled since he moved to St. Mary’s from Queens Park Rangers in January 2016. The Englishman has scored 6 times this season and also has an assist for the Saints and has been a huge presence for Claude Puel this term in the Saints’ attack.
Adept at scoring from either feet or his head, he is a true poacher with all his goals coming from inside the penalty box. A physical threat and a constant presence in the box, he can be a nuisance to most opposition defences.
With Tottenham relying heavily on Harry Kane for goals and new signing Vincent Janssen struggling to find his feet in England, the 27-year Austin could prove to be a prudent signing for the Londoners with his experience in the Premier League and goalscoring abilities.
Ben Gibson
23-year old Ben Gibson has been one of the key players for newly promoted side Middlesbrough in their return season to the English top flight. He had played a vital role in helping Boro achieve promotion back into the Premier League.
He has played all the 15 Premier League matches this season and has been magnificent for Aitor Karanka’s team and was particularly solid against big guns like Arsenal and Manchester City. Gibson also has shown that he is quite capable with the ball at his feet, having played 578 successful passes with a success rate of 87% with 71% of his attempted passes in the forward direction.
With age, he could become one of the best defenders around and Pochettino could have a star in the making at his hands if he brings Gibson to the Lane.