Redknapp shares what he’s heard about Archie Gray after what he did to Marcus Rashford
Archie Gray has managed to make himself a standout man at Tottenham this season, despite poor form from the Lilywhites throughout the campaign.
The 18-year-old has been thrown in at the deep end this term and has made 17 Premier League appearances due to injuries in his side.
While his side may be underperforming, Harry Redknapp has been left impressed by what Gray has done so far.
Harry Redknapp shares Archie Gray leadership verdict
Although he is still young, being in football from a young age before being thrown in the way he has been has meant the 18-year-old has shown his character immediately which has left many impressed.
With injuries to the likes of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven keeping them sidelined, the Spurs boss has had no choice but to call on others in his side.
With Spurs sitting 15th in the table this season, pundits have not held back from their criticism of many experienced players in the side for their lack of spirit on the pitch.
Roy Keane was labelled as “harsh” by some Tottenham supporters after his comments surrounding James Maddison’s inability to have an impact in the Lilywhites squad.
However, while those who are expected to lead have come under fire, younger members of the squad have excelled in going about their business, earning praise on the way.
Writing in the print edition of The Sun on Sunday (16 February, page 57), Redknapp identified a key moment between Gray and Rashford as he said: “There was a moment at Aston Villa last week when Marcus Rashford tried to run him one-on-one but Archie got his body across, won the ball and shut down the danger. It was class.
“From what I hear, he is a good talker too, despite being so young. He’s confident, says the right things, and is not afraid to put his message across in the dressing room.
“So you can forget his age and he is already a natural leader – and Ange certainly needs one with his team in this position.”
Archie Gray set for bright future
While the circumstances may not have been ideal, Gray has certainly done well to take his chance when called upon by Ange Postecoglou and show what he can do.
In typical circumstances, the 18-year-old would not have been given the opportunity to play so much Premier League football at such a young age and although his side are in a bad place, he is one player who has certainly gained plaudits.
Being able to play against some of the strongest and most gifted players in the world has only enhanced his abilities and having filled in in a defensive position, despite also being able to play in midfield has grown the youngster’s abilities to compete with big players.
It’s interesting to see him being credited for his work against Rashford, a player who was previously tipped to be a great prospect but has fallen away from that label in recent months.
Nevertheless, if Gray can carry on as well as he has started his time in the first-team then we may well see his career continue to take steps very much in the right direction.