Will Mathys Tel Finally Secure Consistent Matches in His Preferred Role?
Mathys Tel is at a crucial juncture in his career. The young forward has the chance to secure consistent matches in his preferred role, particularly following a recent performance against Sunderland, where he showcased his striking ability.
Tel’s Promising Appearance Against Sunderland
During the match against Sunderland, Tel had a standout moment. Moments after kickoff, he made a swift move, mirroring the precision of iconic players like Jermain Defoe. Positioned near the edge of the box, he executed a powerful shot that was brilliantly saved by Sunderland’s goalkeeper, Robin Roefs.
Manager Thomas Frank praised Tel’s “shoot-first” mentality, highlighting its importance for the team’s attacking dynamics. “If you don’t shoot, you don’t score,” Frank noted in a pre-match press conference.
Adapting to Multiple Roles
Tel’s versatility has been a double-edged sword. While he can play various positions—left wing, attacking midfield, and striker—questions remain about where he will thrive. Frank reflected on the development process of players like Ollie Watkins, who transitioned from winger to successful striker at Brentford.
The decision to sign Tel permanently from Bayern Munich for €35 million (£30 million; $41 million) in the summer indicated a commitment to his development. However, his position in the starting XI has fluctuated, leading to speculation about his long-term role.
Recent Challenges and Opportunities
This season, Tel’s opportunities have been limited. Despite showing promise, including scoring in a previous match against Leeds United, he has struggled to secure a starting spot.
- Marked as a player with potential, he now faces competition from Wilson Odobert and Randal Kolo Muani.
- His situation has been exacerbated by the sale of Brennan Johnson for £35 million to Crystal Palace and injuries to other forwards.
Frank described Tel’s recent performance as positive, noting his ability to create scoring opportunities. The manager admitted that Tel could have scored had he been more match-fit.
Looking Ahead
With limited attacking options for Tottenham, including an injury to Mohammed Kudus, Tel’s position becomes increasingly critical. Frank acknowledged that no player has consistently claimed the left wing spot, and Tel has the chance to make this role his own.
As he prepares to face Bournemouth, the focus will be on Mathys Tel. This match presents a significant opportunity for him to establish himself in the squad. The club’s current needs may pave the way for Tel to finally secure consistent matches in his preferred role.
