Tottenham: Timo Werner proves Richard Keys and Andy Gray wrong v Crystal Palace
Timo Werner has proved Richard Keys and Andy Gray wrong in his performance for Tottenham against Crystal Palace on 2 March after they were scathing in their criticism of the striker.
The pair were strong in their criticism as Werner attempted to round Sam Johnstone who recovered to pull off an excellent save, just as the striker was about to slot it in.
It was the German who was celebrating later in the game, though, scoring an equalising goal before his team went on to cruise to a 3-1 victory after Werner opened the floodgates.
Speaking at half-time [beIN SPORTS, 2 March], Gray shared: “There are some players that go through and you just know they’re going to score. There are others, and sadly Timo Werner is one of those where you’re hoping he’s going to score. You’re not confident.”
Keys then continued: “That touch there to take him wider than he needed to be…” As Gray finished: “Not good. Not good.”
Timo Werner proves doubters wrong v Crystal Palace
In fact, the goal that Werner eventually scored came following a total xG in the game of 0.86 – showing that from the two chances he was presented, he actually outperformed what was expected. [Sofascore]
When looking at his xG throughout his performances since arriving at Tottenham, he has scored one from 1.55 xG, and perhaps this is an area he could improve, but his two assists from a total of 1.14 xA make up for those misses.
Against Crystal Palace, the German could have notched more assists on top of the two he has already, with two key passes and one big chance created ultimately granting him no reward. That, on top of a 92 per cent pass accuracy, is a display of his effectiveness in creating chances.
In terms of his out-and-out attacking numbers which Gray especially was critical of, the striker hit the target with three of his four shots today and the other one was blocked, showing that his finishing has not been particularly wasteful.
A 100 per cent dribble success rate was also a contributing factor to his impressive display, and on top of that, Werner won 75 per cent of his duels, proving once again how much of an impact he can have on Ange Postecoglou’s team – even if he doesn’t score every chance he gets.
Werner has proved both Keys and Gray wrong and if he can keep performing like he did against Crystal Palace, he will continue to silence any doubters.
In other Tottenham news, Ryan Sessegnon’s long-term future at the club has been questioned.
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