Harry Redknapp’s decision to prioritise the Premier League over the Europa League has given him the chance to blood a number of youngsters, and from what we have seen of the current crop, Spurs fans should have every reason to be optimistic about the future. Here are some of the brightest prospects that are currently lurking on the fringes. For the latest sporting news, results, and Free Fantasy Football, visit skysports.com.
Tom Carroll
2011 has proved to be a good year for 20 year old Tom Carroll, a cultured midfielder with excellent awareness, a good range of passing, and a lot of confidence on the ball. A string of assured performance for the Spurs first team, mostly in the Europa League, have led to a call up to Stuart Pearce’s England under-21 squad. While he may not be the biggest player physically, his technical skills more than make up for his lack of size, and he has a confidence on the ball that belies his years.
Cristian Ceballos
Former Barcelona youngster Cristian Ceballos shot to fame in his early teens when he was filmed juggling a ball with then Barca star Ronaldinho. However, his subsequent progress was not enough to earn him a new contract at the Nou Camp and he was released at the end of last season. After a brief trial with Chelsea, he visited Tottenham’s training ground towards the end of last season, and his performances were enough to convince Harry Redknapp to offer him a contract. He can play as an attacking midfielder or forward, and combines dazzling skills with a strong work ethic that should serve him well in the Premier League.
Andros Townsend
20 year old Andros Townsend has been a fan of Tottenham Hotspur for as long as he can remember, and this year fulfilled his dream of becoming a first team regular after a stunning performance against Shamrock Rovers in the Europa League. He marked his first appearance for Spurs with a goal against Charlton in last year’s FA cup with a goal, after several successful loan spells with lower league clubs.
Jake Livermore
Livermore is a local lad that joined Tottenham’s academy in 2006, and has progressed through the youth ranks to the first team, after a few successful loan spells at lower league teams and a lengthy lay-off due to injury. A strong, combative midfielder with pace to burn, he scored his first goal for Spurs in a friendly against Barcelona. When asked “What is it like to score against the best team in the world?”, he replied “Score against the best team in the world? I play for them.”, to the delight of many Tottenham fans.