Thomas Frank has reacted to speculation over Micky van de Ven’s Tottenham future amidst rumours linking him with a move away from the club.
Micky van de Ven has been named in the new Tottenham leadership group ahead of the likes of Pedro Porro and Rodrigo Bentancur, which left some people surprised.
That is evidence that Thomas Frank not only sees the Dutchman as an important player on the pitch but also as a key voice in the dressing room.
Van de Ven produced an outstanding performance against Everton, showing his dominance in both boxes and scoring Tottenham’s opening two goals, and Frank has now made a clear statement about his future.
Thomas Frank reacts to reports of a new Tottenham contract for Micky van de Ven
Van de Ven continues to be linked with a move to Real Madrid, but Tottenham reportedly have a plan to ward off interest from Los Blancos.
It has been alleged that the Netherlands international is set to be offered a new long-term deal by Spurs, and the Tottenham boss is confident that the centre-back is happy at N17.
When asked if Van de Ven will be the next player to be offered a new deal, Frank said (via the club’s official website): “Yeah, very happy with Micky. I think he’s been brilliant for the club since he signed. I think I said it yesterday as well, I think he’s taken some steps up this season.
“I think he actually defended even better. I think he’s still very good on the ball. I think he added the goals, the headed goals, which I’m very happy with. He’s a threat on set pieces. Character, leadership also growing. So, as far as I know, we have a good contract with him but definitely a player I see a big future in here in the club.
“I think he’s happy here. That’s very important. We are happy with him. Let’s see what happens in the future. But I think the most important thing is, I agree, it looks like he really enjoys his football. He really enjoys his time here. I’m very happy with him. Everyone is happy. So, that’s a good start.”
Van de Ven’s stock is growing very quickly
The centre-back’s injury woes last season meant that he was not in the media limelight as much, but he has shown this season that he has not lost any of his sharpness.
In fact, pundits continue to name Van de Ven among the best centre-backs in the Premier League, and there is no doubt that he will be on the radar of the elite clubs in Europe.
According to reports, Tottenham CEO Vinai Venkatesham’s number one priority is to tie Van de Ven down to a new contract, and one can understand why as the 24-year-old is arguably a £100m-£120m asset.