Archie Gray set for extended new Tottenham chance as injury timeline revealed
Archie Gray has struggled for game time recently despite a strong performance as left-back in the UEFA Champions League.
Gray benched Djed Spence to start in Tottenham’s goalless draw to Monaco in the Champions League.
The young star impressed while on the pitch, and it was even suggested that Gray could start at left-back over Spence moving forward.
Despite this, the England international returned to the fold in Spurs’ 3-0 win over Everton, leaving Gray to watch from the sidelines once again.
However, while a starting spot on Thomas Frank’s team does not seem to be on the immediate cards, there is still hope yet.
Archie Gray will play left-back in Djed Spence’s absence
Udogie has been sidelined for Frank since sustaining an injury over the international break and is not expected to return for Tottenham’s clash against Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup.
Competition in North London is high with the Dane having outstanding left-back options in Spence, Udogie and Pedro Porro.
However, speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, Tottenham expert and Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham believes that Gray will have the opportunities to shine on the left side while Udogie is injured over the coming weeks.
“I think with Gray, he's got that versatility to his game and obviously, time will tell, but I think we've got three outstanding fullbacks in Spence, Porro and Udogie when all fit and firing,” Wenham said.
“But I think while Udogie is missing absolutely, there are opportunities for Gray to come in and play that position. But I think he had a really good cameo.
“It was the Bodo away game. He had a really good cameo off the bench that directly led to one of the goals. So I think we are going to see more and more of him over the coming weeks.”
Archie Gray needs to start in the midfield
There is no denying that Gray is an excellent defensive option for Tottenham, and it is an asset to have such a versatile talent at the club.
- He has played 278 minutes this season
- Gray can play as a full-back, centre-back and midfielder
However, it is time Frank consistently played him as a central midfielder, which is his natural position.
The issue both Frank and Gray face is that the youngster will struggle to master one position after having so many roles. This could result in him always being a good player, but never the first-choice option.
Frank playing him more in the midfield would solve this, and while competition is high, there are enough games this season to at least make a start.
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