Tottenham tipped to axe Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg after confirmed news – Robinson
Paul Robinson has tipped Tottenham manager Antonio Conte to axe Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from his starting XI.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former White Hart Lane number suggested Rodrigo Bentancur, 24, has been bought as a replacement for Hojbjerg, 26.
On Monday (31 January), Spurs announced the signing of Bentancur from Juventus.
The Uruguay international put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half year contract in north London.
He will compete with Hojbjerg, Harry Winks and Oliver Skipp for the two central midfield spots in Antonio Conte system.
Robinson believes Hojbjerg, who he claimed has struggled this season, is most at risk from Bentancur’s arrival.
“He has been poor since Conte has come in,” he told Football Insider.
“I was a big admirer of Hojbjerg last season but I think his form has dipped this year. He could be the one that’s dropped now that Bentancur has come in.
“Bentancur will be one of the two holding midfielders. He will start with another.
“He is a midfielder that I admire. He is combative, can tackle and has a great engine. I think he’ll be a great addition to what Spurs have already got.
“He does not just make the squad strong, he makes the starting XI stronger. I am really looking forward to seeing him play.”
Hojbjerg has made 29 appearances across all competittions for the Lilywhites this season.
His contract runs until the summer of 2025.
In other news, a Tottenham expert has revealed why Conte wanted to sign Rodrigo Bentancur as ‘brilliant’ £15.7million deal hailed.