One member of Tottenham’s back four is the club’s sole representative in WhoScored’s Team of the Week on the back of the Lilywhites’ 4-1 thrashing of West Ham United.
Spurs man make amends after Brighton disaster
While there were several poor performances across the pitch from Tottenham in the second half at the Amex Stadium a couple of weeks ago, one could argue that Destiny Udogie was the worst of the bunch.
The Italian looked extremely hesitant, making several unforced errors, with two of the Segulls’ three goals being down to his mistakes.
However, the 21-year-old served as a timely reminder of his quality in the London derby, showcasing why many rate him as one of the best young left-backs in the world.
Destiny Udogie is a nightmare to play against
Although Udogie did not cover himself in glory for West Ham’s opening goal, he gave a decent account of himself defensively, largely managing to keep Jarrod Bowen quiet.
The Italian was at his devastating best going forward, doing some excellent work on the touchline to set up Yves Bissouma’s goal early in the second half.
WhoScored wrote about Udogie’s display: “Tottenham left-back Destiny Udogie turned in his best-rated performance of the Premier League season so far in Saturday’s win over West Ham, providing the assist for Yves Bissouma to put the hosts ahead seven minutes into the second half.
“That assist came from one of three key passes made by the young Italian, who also managed three tackles and four-ball recoveries, to earn a WhoScored rating of 8.15.”
Ange Postecoglou backs Udogie
Postecoglou felt that the left-back could have done better for West Ham’s goal but he was complimentary about the young defender, praising his determination to keep improving different aspects of his game.
The Australian said in his post-match press conference about Udogie (via Football.London): “He was better. I still think for their goal he could’ve done better. We’ve got to continually work with Destiny as he’s still a young player, it’s his second year in the Premier League but I’ve got no doubt that he’s going to become an outstanding player for us.
“The only way he’s going to become an outstanding player for us is if we keep exposing him, playing him and letting him learn from his mistakes. It’s part of the process for young players that you have to expect that it’s not going to be smooth but you know eventually you’re going to have a fantastic footballer.
“I’ve no doubt about that with Destiny. I’ve absolutely no doubt. We’re constantly working at his game, constantly working at areas for him to improve and the beauty of it is that he wants to and he embraces it. I thought after the goal he bounced back really well.”