Roberto De Zerbi’s latest decision provides a window into what he thinks about Archie Gray’s role at Tottenham during the upcoming season.
According to reports, Tottenham have no intention of listening to offers for Gray, despite adding two big-money additions to their midfield department this summer.
Spurs insiders have made it clear the 20-year-old is highly rated by De Zerbi, even though the youngster found starts hard to come by under the Italian last season.
The Tottenham boss may have just sent a big signal about the young midfielder as he gets set to decide on his new leadership group ahead of his first full season in charge.
Archie Gray captains Tottenham against Sydney FC
The former Leeds man captained a young Spurs side against Auckland FC on Sunday, Gray admitted that it was a special feeling to wear the captain’s armband.
De Zerbi once again decided to give the captaincy to the youngster for today’s clash, even though several other senior players were named in the starting line-up.
Ben Davies, Conor Gallagher and Richarlison were all in the eleven against Sydney FC, but the 20-year-old was the one tasked with leading the side out again at Allianz Stadium.
This decision comes a few days after De Zerbi praised Gray’s mentality, with these indications suggesting that the England U21 international could be part of the club’s leadership group next season despite being so young.
Has Roberto De Zerbi sent a hint about Lucas Bergvall’s future?
Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Brighton have been credited with an interest in Lucas Bergvall, who has been widely backed to leave Tottenham this summer.
However, following Spurs’ win over Auckland on Sunday, De Zerbi revealed that he will soon hold talks with the Swede about his future.
The fact that the Italian named Bergvall in the starting eleven against Sydney FC may be a sign that those talks were productive, and the player may be coming around to staying put in N17.