Jamie Donley exit claim made after what has happened away from Tottenham
Jamie Donley has been out on loan from Tottenham this season, and he may be on the move again in the summer.
Tottenham, in some scenarios, have been forced to turn to youth in order to deal with the injury crisis that ensued earlier in the campaign.
However, players like Donley were afforded time out on loan, in a bid to get them exposure to senior football.
Donley, in particular, has thrived with Leyton Orient this season, and a decision will have to be made in the summer as to what the initial plan is for the youngster.
Tottenham may seek another loan deal for Donley
Mikey Moore is in a similar position in terms of age and immediate value to the squad, with Ange Postecoglou rarely affording him the chance to shine.
A loan exit has been mooted already for Moore, but Paul Robinson thinks the same could happen with Donley in the summer, albeit higher up the football pyramid.
Speaking to Tottenham News, he said: “He’s played regularly, he’s enjoyed playing, scoring goals and making a name for himself. That’s why Tottenham obviously have got the player in the first place, and then the reason for the loan system is to allow players to develop and flourish and play football in lower leagues.
| Leyton Orient | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Donley | 34 | 6 | 7 |
“I think it’s important not to cost young players’ development. I’ve said it a million times before. I’d much rather see a youngster go out and play a season in the Championship or in League One than be a bit part player. There’s an element of getting some good experience, training with the Tottenham first team every week.
“If he’s going to come in and be more than a bit part player next season, then there’s an argument that the manager will keep him at the club. But for him and for Mikey Moore, for the age that they’re at, I think playing first team football at that age is invaluable.”
Tottenham must manage youth better
Those like Moore have not been afforded much time to shine, while one or two of the loan exits have not gone to plan.
Will Lankshear was another tipped for a place in the senior squad this season, but his move to West Brom has not been anywhere near as fruitful as many would have anticipated.
Tottenham need to manage that better next season, and ensure that they aren’t hampering the development of their own talent.