Tottenham Expert makes ‘frustrating’ claim as Richarlison replacement named
Richarlison’s form has been a disappointment since his first few games of the season for Tottenham.
Richarlison had a strong start to the season at Tottenham, which led fans, players and the media to believe he was finally back.
A double during Spurs’ win over Burnley and an admirable performance against Manchester City at the Etihad seemed to have sealed the deal.
However, a month later and there are questions on whether Thomas Frank should omit him from the starting line-up for good.
Dominic Solanke named as ‘better’ Richarlison alternative
Richarlison started from the bench in Spurs’ win over Leeds United, with Mathys Tel netting the opener for Tottenham.
Meanwhile, Dominic Solanke has been sidelined at Spurs since their win over Man City, with Frank confirming Solanke had undergone minor ankle surgery.
- Solanke netted 16 goals and provided eight assists in 45 games last season
- Richarlison netted five goals and provided two assists in 22 games last season
The Lilywhites’ attack looked better with Solanke at the helm, who often created space, which allowed his fellow attackers into the game.
His injury comes as a huge blow for Spurs, with Tottenham expert and Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – convinced that the Englishman should start over the Brazilian when fit.
“Solanke, it’s confirmed he had surgery, which is massively frustrating because Solanke took a lot of criticism last year,” Wenham said.
“But for me, he was a significantly better starter, and he’s better than Richarlison. So I would like Solanke to be back in the team as soon as possible.”
If Richarlison keeps up his current form, it would not be difficult for Solanke to displace him upon his return, despite his clear struggles.
- Read more: Richarlison’s days are numbered at Tottenham as Premier League rivals eye shock £25million transfer
Richarlison outperforms Dominic Solanke on the pitch
At first glance, it is easy to judge Richarlison’s season as he continues to drop off from his mid-August form.
But if comparing Richarlison’s current and Solanke’s 2024/25 season per 90, the Brazilian is more complete in almost every facet of the game.
Richarlison’s current season is superior in every metric but off duels won, to which Solanke excels.
This is noticeable when on the pitch. The former Everton star’s all-round game is more pronounced than Solanke, who is more of a pure striker.
Both offer different things while on the pitch, but perhaps the future will look kindly on Frank for sticking with Richarlison a little while longer.
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