Oliver Skipp opens up on why Norwich loan move has been so beneficial for him

Oliver Skipp has admitted that his loan spell at Norwich City has been extremely beneficial for both the physical and mental side of his game, insisting that he will be a better player for having had the experience.

Norwich have enjoyed a fantastic season so far, currently sitting pretty at the top of the Championship table.

The Canaries looks to be aiming to bounce straight back up after their relegation from the top flight last season and Skipp has certainly been a massive part of their resurgence.

The midfielder was handed a few opportunities for Spurs last season but admitted that it does not compare to the pressures associated with playing 90 minutes week-in, week-out.

The 20-year-old told The Evening Standard: “It’s been perfect. Whilst playing for Tottenham for 10 or 15 minutes off the bench was a dream, this year’s been brilliant for my development.

“You can do all the training in the world around the first team but nothing replaces playing week in, week out.

“Physically we can all cope with playing every three days but mentally putting one game aside and moving on to the next one, keeping going and going, that’s been the most challenging thing.

“You don’t appreciate it until you do it. That’s the biggest thing I’ve learned.”

The youngster is being trusted with a lot of responsibility by Daniel Farke this season, playing as a deep-lying playmaker where he is not only expected to stop attacks and win the ball back but also to help create in possession.

When asked about the role he is playing, Skipp said: “Nothing compares to playing [that role] in a full men’s 11 where three points are really crucial.

“That added responsibility has really helped my game. You come to a team fighting towards the top of the table, so there’s pressure.”

The midfielder also admitted that he is becoming much more vocal on the pitch and is willing to take on more responsibility.

He added: “I feel like the further season’s gone, I’m doing the vocal side of the game more.

“I feel like I have changed a little bit. At Tottenham it was all easy, it was 20 minutes from home. I’ve been at Spurs all my life, so to have a year outside the club is massive for my development. I’ve just been growing up really.”

Spurs Web Opinion

It was an inspired choice from the club to send the midfielder on loan to Norwich. Not only does the club’s style of play suit Skipp but he is also playing week-in, week-out in a team that is aiming to get three points in every single game. That should help him prepare for the kind of pressure he will have at Tottenham next season.

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