Thomas Frank has now delivered his verdict on Souza’s Premier League debut for Tottenham against Manchester United last weekend.
Tottenham Hotspur witnessed the debut of new winter signing Souza last weekend in the clash against Manchester United.
The former Santos man came on for Destiny Udogie, who pulled his hamstring and was subbed off in the 55th minute for Souza, with Udogie now sidelined for the next five weeks.
It was not the perfect debut for the Brazilian, given the circumstances, as he came into the game when Tottenham were a goal down and a man down.
Still, Souza did put in a respectable performance against an in-form United attack, with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Amad and Mbeumo.
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Accurate passes | 9/9 (100%) |
| Chances created | 1 |
| Touches | 14 |
| Passes into final third | 2 |
| Recoveries | 2 |
Tottenham boss Thomas Frank praises Souza debut
Thomas Frank was asked about Souza’s debut and how the teenager has adapted to life at the club, addressing both the occasion and the player’s response to it when speaking publicly.
Speaking about the defender’s first appearance and the magnitude of the moment, Frank told football.london that he was pleased with how the youngster handled the step up.
The Dane said, “He did very well, I’m very happy for him. Coming from Brazil, 19-years-old, to Tottenham, to the Premier League, getting his debut in one of the most iconic stadiums in the world. That’s a big thing so I hope him and his family are proud.
“He did 40 minutes last time didn’t he… so I hope he is [ready to play against Newcastle]. He’s still shortish [on fitness] but I liked what I saw from him when he came on, nice and positive.”
Spurs injury crisis could accelerate Souza development
With the full-back only a teenager, the expectation on him is not very high; however, the situation Spurs find themselves in could pretty much accelerate Souza’s development.
Tottenham are currently dealing with an injury crisis, leaving the 19-year-old as one of the only two fit full-backs at the club, alongside Djed Spence.
Spence, however, is only just recovering from injury, and that could see Souza start and feature a lot more than expected, with little room for being eased into the side.