Xavi Simons needs time to become accustomed to Chelsea and the Premier League before he can shine at Tottenham.
That’s according to journalist Süleyman Öztürk, speaking to Voetbal International. He has leapt to defend Xavi Simons today.
The Dutchman joined Tottenham in a big money move at the end of the summer transfer window, signing for €65m.
Xavi Simons was brought in as an immediate replacement for James Maddison, who is spending the season on the treatment table after picking up a knee injury in pre-season.
He’s had something of a slow start to life at the club, with just one assist in seven games to date. That’s seen some questioning him and how he fits in under Thomas Frank.
There has also been some criticism aimed his way after a moment in the 2-1 win over Leeds United on Saturday. He ruined a Tottenham counterattack when he tried a rabona rather than a simple pass to Cristian Romero to put the Argentine clean through.
“Xavi Simons isn’t a playmaker”
It was a huge moment of frustration, particularly given how tight the game was, but Öztürk wants to defend him somewhat.
“I also notice that, especially in the Netherlands, if an English newspaper reports that Xavi Simons isn’t playing well, it’s immediately quoted on football websites,” he said.
“He’s an interesting player; he’s one of our players we’re keeping a close eye on. Because, of course, yes, there are many fellow club members, but these days everything is news.
“Don’t forget that he was signed for a lot of money, of course. We’re talking about the top of the Premier League. And then excelling in your first match is something only a few can do. You’re talking about the Woltemades of this world. But Xavi Simons is incredibly young. He has a new manager, new teammates.
“And you also have to consider, what is Xavi Simons’ strength? And at Leipzig, at some point, the team was adjusted for him. But this is a completely different reality. And they expect him to have a bit of a Madison-like role. But he’s not Madison. Madison is a playmaker. Xavi Simons isn’t a playmaker or any other type of playmaker.
“And I think the coach still has to figure that out. You have, of course, the Ghanaian player who came from home and really plays like a shot. Koudous, yes. I think we need to give Xavi Simons time to make that adjustment to the Premier League where you really have much less time to think. And that takes some getting used to.”
