'He is ready' - Exclusive: Paul Robinson reacts as Mourinho plans major role for Spurs teen
Paul Robinson insisted Oliver Skipp is ready to be a major part of the Tottenham first team next season and encouraged Jose Mourinho to utilise the teenager more.
The former White Hart Lane goalkeeper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 19-year-old is beyond the stage of his career where he needs to go out on loan.
As revealed by Football Insider last week, Jose Mourinho is planning to hand the midfielder a more significant role when or if the season resumes.
The Premier League, like many leagues across Europe, is suspended due to pandemic COVID-19, with the UK currently under lockdown measure to reduce the spread of the virus.
Robinson was adamant the England under-21 international was of the highest quality despite being substituted at half-time against Burnley earlier this month.
"Next season he needs to come into the team a bit more," he told Football Insider.
"He has been in and around the team this season. Yes, he was taken off with Ndombele against Burnley at half-time but he is still young and a top-class player. He is ready.
"At this stage, he is not a player to be sent out on loan. He has to be kept in and around the first-team. I think he will get more game time this season but I do not think he will be a regular starter."
Skipp, who graduated from the Spurs academy, has made 8 appearances in all competitions this season, featuring predominantly as a substitute.
The Lilywhites have begun initial talks over a new contract for the academy graduate whose current deal expires in 2021, Football Insider has learned.