Glenn Hoddle believes that Lucas Moura is a huge asset to Tottenham as an impact substitute, given the Brazilian’s ability to run with the ball and draw fouls.
While Moura has shown several glimpses of his quality since his move from Paris Saint-Germain in 2018, he has struggled to get a consistent run in the starting eleven for the majority of his time at the club.
The Brazilian was getting regular game time alongside Harry Kane and Son Heung-min in Antonio Conte’s first couple of months in charge but he has once again been relegated to a bit-part role since the arrival of Dejan Kulusevski in January.
Moura was once again introduced as an impact substitute by Conte in Tottenham’s 3-0 win over Arsenal, and the Brazilian showcased his energy out of possession and his willingness to run with the ball, winning multiple freekicks for the home side.
He then started in place of the ill Kulusevski against Burnley, showcasing his attacking ability one vs one on the right wing.
Reports over recent weeks have indicated that Spurs would be willing to listen to offers for Moura this summer, even though the 29-year-old is happy in North London (Evening Standard).
However, Hoddle believes that the PSG man is ideally suited to making an impact off the bench.
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The Spurs legend told Premier League Productions (12/05/22 from 19:45 onwards): “With Tottenham now there is an added string to their bow with Moura coming on. We have good changes from the bench when the opposition is tired.
“He runs with the ball, he is a bit different, he has a change of pace, he draws fouls, he works hard, he presses people. A nice little combination, slightly different to Kulusevski.”
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Moura is arguably in the elite category when it comes to attackers who can make an impact off the bench against tired legs. That is not just down to his dribbling ability but also because he is a deceptively good presser, and wins the ball back quite often in the middle third of the pitch.
While the Brazilian’s end product is frustrating, he has an excellent attitude and is not one to sulk if he does not start matches. So, I suspect that Conte will not be in a hurry to get rid of the 29-year-old this summer.
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