Tottenham make ‘wild’ Kōta Takai announcement ahead of Reading clash
Tottenham supporters have been left confused after an announcement regarding Kōta Takai.
Tottenham take on Reading on Saturday (19 July) at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in what will be the Lilywhites’ first pre-season fixture, and Thomas Frank’s first outing as Spurs boss.
The confrontation presents an opportunity for Frank to take a closer look at his squad and gives the players a chance to make an impression on their new boss.
And ahead of the clash, Spurs have made an official announcement.
Tottenham announce provisional pre-season squad numbers
Tottenham confirmed on Friday (18 July) the squad numbers the players will wear for the North London club’s five pre-season fixtures.
While the numbers are subject to change, new defensive arrivals Luka Vušković and Takai will temporarily take numbers 80 and 81, respectively. Meanwhile, Mohammed Kudus, who joined from West Ham United last week, has been handed the number 20 shirt.
| Home Team | Away Team | Stadium | Date | Kick Off |
| Reading | Tottenham | Select Car Leasing Stadium | 19th July | 3pm |
Tottenham fans will be excited to finally see their new recruits in action when they take on Reading. However, some have taken to social media to express their discontent about Takai’s new number.
Takai has a lot to prove during pre-season
Takai, more than most, has a lot on the line coming into Tottenham and will be looking to impress during pre-season.
Indeed, the Japanese defender has been signed during a time when defensive competition is at an all-time high. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven will likely retain their starting spots next season, while Kevin Danso and Radu Drǎgusin are next in line.
The 20-year-old not only has the first-team starters to worry about. Vušković, along with Ashley Phillips, will both be hoping to prove themselves to Frank, too.
With such fierce competition from all angles, Takai could be sent on loan next season. This would make sense given he has not yet played in England.
A loan move would be a good opportunity for him to become acquainted with the speed of English football while providing him with adequate minutes to develop. However, there is every chance that he would prefer to remain at Spurs and fight for gametime.
Either way, Takai will be looking to put his best foot forward over the next few weeks.
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