Xavi Simons already impresses Tottenham coaches with one thing he did in training
Tottenham’s summer arrival Xavi Simons is making an excellent first impression with one thing he did in training.
Simons joined Spurs from RB Leipzig and could make his debut for the club against West Ham this Saturday.
With James Maddison out injured for the season and Dejan Kulusevski also on the sidelines, Simons is currently the only natural number 10 available to Thomas Frank.
Creativity was an issue in Spurs’ last game against Bournemouth, when they registered just one shot on target in a 1-0 defeat.
Xavi Simons shines in Spurs training
As per Alasdair Gold, football.london [11 September], Simons showed off his skill and technique to his Spurs team mates in training which has left them in awe.
Gold said: “For a player who came through Barcelona’s La Masia academy and has that Dutch upbringing, Xavi’s touch and technique is near flawless.
“His ability to cushion fast passes with his instep or even his chest with one high cross, is clear and his quick flicks and spins to get away from his marker, which was often up to the busy [Dante] Cassanova to have to deal with.
“He span the Spurs academy product at one point before linking up with fellow new arrival Randal Kolo Muani, who has been in training for a few days as he was not called up to the France squad for their games this month.
“Xavi also scored a beautifully executed volleyed lob over goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky which drew praise from [Matt] Wells and applause from others.”
Simons also had a spell at PSG before he signed permanently for RB Leipzig in January, leaving the German club following their inability to qualify for the Champions League.
Thomas Frank hoping for instant Simons impact vs West Ham
Whilst the focus will be on Mohammed Kudus‘ return to West Ham, Simons’ arrival could cause the Hammers more problems.
In their last home game against Chelsea, West Ham’s defensive vulnerabilities were brutally exposed.
Allowing Simons the opportunity to get on the ball could be a dangerous game based off his excellent technical ability.
| Xavi Simons | Stats |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 8 |
Simons will have to be closely marked to ensure he is not able to dictate the game at the London Stadium.
Frank will be hoping an instant impact can help service Richarlison up-front and ease the burden on Kudus.
Simons could be the final piece of Franks’ early plan at Spurs and now the transfer window is over, the new boss will be closely scrutinised at how he is able to turn the club back into European challengers in the Premier League.