Thomas Frank told he has simple Destiny Udogie choice at Tottenham amid ‘traumatic’ events
Destiny Udogie has been praised for his Tottenham performances after he was allegedly threatened at gunpoint in North London.
The Metropolitan Police have launched an investigation into the incident involving the Spurs full-back on 6 September, while Tottenham have come out in support of Udogie and his family.
Udogie had been sidelined for Tottenham for a while with injury and has recently returned to the pitch.
The Italy international has always been a key player for the Lilywhites, and the difference without him on the pitch is clear to all who tune in.
Destiny Udogie must start for Tottenham
Udogie started in Tottenham’s spectacular 4-0 win over Copenhagen in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.
The fullback was incredible as he took charge of the left-hand side, causing his opponents issues both offensively and defensively. However, he started on the bench in Spurs’ 2-2 draw to Manchester United on 8 November.
While Djed Spence has been solid for Tottenham, speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, Tottenham expert and Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham believes that Spurs are a different team with Udogie on the left flank.
“The police were investigating, and all Tottenham and their fans can do is wish Destiny the best after that incredibly traumatic experience,” Wenham said.
“But I think we saw from the Copenhagen game that he’s managed to focus on his football and not let this burden him too much, or he’s publicly not showing that. So it’s great to see him back in the team.
“We look far better as a team with him in it, and that’s no slight on Spence, who has been outstanding as well. I just think a left-footed player at left back suits the way we want to play more.”
Why Destiny Udogie must start over Djed Spence
Udogie slightly edges Spence if considering all the qualities of a good fullback.
Indeed, the England international is better in the air, while the Italian international exceeds him in defensive duels won.
Offensively, their strength is the other’s weakness. Udogie is a better progressive passer and assister, while Spence is a slightly better ball carrier and a more accurate crosser.
However, the Lilywhites became a bit more threatening once Udogie was substituted on during their draw to United.
Indeed, the fullback linked up with Wilson Odobert well and was involved in Mathys Tel’s initial equaliser.
Meanwhile, Spence struggled to progress the ball when on the pitch, and the left side only sprang to life once the Italian international was substituted on. As such, Udogie should be Frank’s starting left-back moving forward.
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