Redknapp claims Tottenham man is ‘as good as he’s seen in a long time’

Jamie Redknapp has disagreed with Jose Mourinho’s claim that Tottenham are outsiders in the title race, while also raving about one their summer signings.

Speaking on the Pitch to Post podcast, the Sky Sports pundit ran the rule over Spurs’ backline.

And he was full of praise for two of their summer signings in Sergio Reguilon and Joe Rodon, with the former earning particular plaudits.

Mourinho’s side currently sit top of the Premier League ahead of Sunday’s north London derby. But the Portuguese has been tempering expectations by talking down his side’s title chances.

“They’re certainly not the little pony he suggests,” said Redknapp. “They’ve got France’s goalkeeper, two great right backs in Doherty and Aurier.

“Dier, England centre back, Alderweireld, centre back for the number one team in the world. They’ve just signed the young man Rodon who has got international caps.

“Reguilon is as good a left back as I’ve seen in a long time. Sanchez isn’t even playing but he’s got lots of international caps.”

“Mourinho has defensive depth across the back four now. Reguilon has come in and hit the ground running especially.”

High praise indeed for a player who has ousted Ben Davies from a starting spot, while Danny Rose is now a forgotten name.

The major concern for Spurs is that Real Madrid have a buy-back option on Reguilon. So if the Spain star keeps improving at the rate he is, then the Spanish giants may come calling.

That would be a huge blow to Tottenham, who only paid Real £27m for the 23-year-old.

Football.london claims that Real can bring the player back for £42m, but that offer is only available in 2021 and 2022.

Mourinho hailed for academy input

Tottenham academy boss Chris Powell has hailed Jose Mourinho’s approach to the youngsters at the club and revealed his own pride when they break into the first team.

Mourinho’s appointment was not universally welcomed but he has guided Spurs to the top of the Premier League table. The Portuguese tactician has also been a regular visitor to the club’s youth games since arriving.

Jose Mourinho Tottenham TEAMtalk

He brought on young trio Alfie Whiteman, Harvey White and Dane Scarlett in the 4-0 Europa League victory over Ludogorets. It remains to be seen if any are used in the league but they all got a glimpse of the big time.

Powell insists he is not surprised, as the former Chelsea chief leaves no stone unturned in the pursuit of excellence.

“I’m on the academy side but we do see the boss, he does come and watch the games. He’s very personable and clever,” he told the Gary Newbon Sports Show with Utilita.

“He takes a real interest in what we’re doing in the academy and I’m sure people have seen recently he gave three academy boys their debuts, they all came on at the same time in a Europa League game, so that was a very proud moment for all the coaches and staff who have helped those players.” Read more…