Tottenham have a 98% star who just proved he can run the Roberto De Zerbi show
Rodrigo Bentancur’s growing influence under Roberto De Zerbi was evident once again, as Tottenham Hotspur’s midfield continues to take shape during a crucial phase of the season.
It has only been four games under Roberto De Zerbi for Tottenham Hotspur, and there is certainly a big difference in approach.
In fact, Spurs seem to be growing after each performance, and when that happens, there is always going to be optimism about their chances of survival.
Sunday evening was perhaps the best yet in terms of tactical application under De Zerbi, as Spurs, from minute one, stuck to the manager’s game plan – pressing from the front, playing with intensity and sustaining pressure throughout.
The Lilywhites’ efforts were duly rewarded as they secured a 2-1 win over Aston Villa at Villa Park, earning back-to-back victories for the first time since August and climbing out of the relegation zone with three games remaining.
Tottenham see Rodrigo Bentancur importance grow with Aston Villa display
Of course, every player has certainly bought into the manager’s ideas and is giving their all to produce displays worthy of the shirt. We could go on about every single player, but one who has stood out in recent weeks is Rodrigo Bentancur.
There is no denying that De Zerbi is getting the best out of the Uruguayan, who was receiving criticism earlier this season for not being progressive with the ball.
However, since his return from injury, Bentancur has looked like a player reborn. His experience, composure and technical ability on the ball have elevated Spurs’ midfield, allowing them to maintain control of the middle of the park.
Not only does he look after the ball well, but he is also contributing with pressing and winning duels, and with such performances, it is no surprise that Spurs’ upturn in form has coincided with his return to the starting XI.
Against Aston Villa, it was more of the same, as he produced a superb midfield display and looked like the Bentancur of old under Antonio Conte before his ACL injury.
His stats from FotMob highlight his impact, as he was handed a 7.6 rating, recorded 98% pass accuracy and completed 2/3 dribbles. He also was not dribbled past throughout his time on the field, nor was he dispossessed.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Touches | 55 |
| Accurate passes | 42/43 (98%) |
| Successful dribbles | 2/3 (67%) |
| Dispossessed | 0 |
| Defensive contributions | 8 |
| Tackles | 2 |
| Blocks | 1 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Recoveries | 3 |
| Dribbled past | 0 |
| Ground duels won | 4/6 (67%) |
Bentancur fitness key for Spurs run-in
It is clear that Bentancur is growing in confidence under De Zerbi, and the Italian coach will be hoping the Uruguayan can stay fit until the end of the season.
Against Aston Villa, Bentancur was substituted after 67 minutes following a knock, and that will be a concern for Tottenham.
The hope will be that it is nothing too serious and that the Uruguayan is fit enough to feature again this weekend against Leeds United.
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