Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur is being under-utilised by Antonio Conte’s system, according to pundit Tim Sherwood.
Bentancur arrived at Tottenham in January of this year, and has become an integral member of Conte’s team. The Uruguayan has been near ever-present this season, with 15 appearances from a possible 15 (Transfermarkt).
The combative midfielder has earned plaudits for his ability to break up opposition attacks, find his way out of tight situations, and help Spurs on their way in the counter-attack too. Bentancur has also scored his first goal for the club this season (Transfermarkt).
Despite a strong start to the campaign for Spurs, the North London side have received criticism of late for their defensive style of play. The back-to-back defeats against Manchester United and Newcastle have not helped the cause.
According to Tim Sherwood in an appearance on Premier League Productions (24/10/22 at 2:15 pm), one of the problems is the way Conte is using his players. In particular, he thinks Bentancur has more to give, if used correctly.
He said: “I think Bentancur, for instance, has got a lot more than what he is being asked to do. He is being very restricted.
“Hojbjerg wasn’t playing (against Newcastle) and Oliver Skipp comes in there. Bissouma was in there as well. I think they just need to let them do what they are good at.”
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Spurs Web Opinion
I’m not entirely sure what Sherwood wants Bentancur to be doing differently, to be honest. He’s been one of, if not the most consistent performer of our season so far and is doing his job brilliantly.
Yes, if you give him permission to roam further forward, he might end up with more goals and assists, but you also then run the risk of losing what he offers in a more defensive position too.
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