Micky Van de Ven reveals what he is doing for Xavi Simons at Tottenham
Xavi Simons has endured a mixed start at Tottenham, but it is way too early to pass judgment.
Spurs beat Chelsea to sign Simons as they strived to land an attacking-midfielder in place of the stricken James Maddison.
The Dutchman enjoyed an encouraging debut against West Ham, but has since stalled in Thomas Frank’s system.
However, his international teammate Micky Van de Ven has shared how he has been helping Simons behind the scenes.
Micky Van de Ven offers immense support for Xavi Simons
Van de Ven captained Tottenham against Bodo/Glimt in Cristian Romero’s absence in a difficult night for Frank’s men.
In the end, the stand-in captain led the Lilywhites to a 2-2 draw on 30 September, which was more than they deserved to come away with in the Champions League encounter.
After his poor showing against Wolves, Simons was benched, but came on for the woeful Brennan Johnson in the 60th minute.
The 22-year-old delivered a decent enough performance and at least got his team going in attacking areas.
- Simons had 37 touches
- He completed 93 per cent of his chances
- Was fouled once
Now, Van de Ven has opened up about how he is assisting his compatriot to settle into life in North London.
“I speak a lot with him, but what also helps him a lot is that he speaks a lot of languages, so he can get on with a lot of players as well,” the centre-back said via Football.London on 1 October.
“I try to help him on and off the pitch with every small detail he asks for. I’m there for him to help him as much as possible.”
Could Xavi Simons start for Tottenham against Leeds United?
Spurs and Leeds have played out some fiery encounters over the years as the two meet again on Saturday.
While the promoted teams have been unfancied this season, Leeds and Sunderland in particular have shown that they are no pushovers.
Indeed, Daniel Farke’s side are unbeaten at Elland Road, meaning Frank is in a pickle when it comes to his tactics.
- Leeds have picked up five points from three home games
- They have scored three goals at Elland Road
- Farke’s men have only conceded two goals on home soil
The Dane has been criticised for his defensive approach, but that might be what is needed in a hostile away environment.
If Frank does opt to go more attacking, then Simons could be in line to start, either centrally or on the left.
However, if Tottenham’s head coach favours his typical defensive approach, then the Dutchman may have to settle for a place on the bench.
One factor that could swing in Simons’ favour is the form of Johnson, who will surely not be given another starting berth after Tuesday night’s antics.
Whatever happens, Spurs should be in for a stern test when they head to Yorkshire and cannot afford to repeat what they did against Bodo/Glimt.
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