Pape Matar Sarr’s imminent exit a blessing in disguise for Tottenham, here’s why
Pape Matar Sarr will leave Tottenham on 15 December to join up with Senegal ahead of the African Cup of Nations.
The midfielder is guaranteed to miss three Premier League games for Thomas Frank’s side, and could be absent for a further three depending on how far Senegal progress in the competition.
Sarr had a very positive start to the season, but fitness issues at the end of September restricted his game time.
As Tottenham’s form has taken a turn for the worse, the 23-year-old has also suffered a drop in performance levels.
Archie Gray set for increased Tottenham game time
Sarr was at fault for two of the goals in Tottenham’s recent Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
In the same game, Archie Gray was one of the standout players for Spurs, competing well against the likes of Joao Neves and Vitinha.
Gray was unable to hit the same heights three days later though, as Tottenham were beaten 2-1 by Fulham, and Frank dropped the 19-year-old to the bench for the trip to Newcastle.
With the North London side unable to call on Sarr later this month though, Gray may be given a longer run in the team to try and build some momentum.
Consistent minutes would allow the teenager to flourish and really make a case to be Tottenham’s starting central midfielder.
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Thomas Frank needs Archie Gray to step up
Frank remains under pressure at Tottenham, despite the fact his side snatched a draw late on against Newcastle.
Cristian Romero was the hero for Spurs, scoring a brace at St James’ Park to ensure the North London side didn’t travel back to the capital empty-handed.
With no Sarr to call upon for games against Liverpool, Crystal Palace and Brentford in a few weeks’ time, Frank needs Gray to step up in order to save his job.
The Dane must start turning the situation around at Tottenham, otherwise he will be hounded out of the club by supporters.
Before Sarr departs to AFCON, Spurs face Brentford and Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, either side of a Champions League clash with Slavia Prague.
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