Just when everyone thought that Tottenham Hotspur are one of the complete teams in the Premier League and would hardly need any major signing to pose a title challenge next season, they have come across a huge blow in Danny Rose. After missing out most of the second half of the season with a medial ligament injury, the full-back is now likely to miss the start of the next season too, as he has decided to go under the knife for a left-knee surgery.
In a statement, Tottenham informed, “We can confirm that Danny Rose has undergone exploratory surgery on his left knee today. He recently returned to training; however, the problem has not resolved fully, therefore a decision has been made to proceed with surgery. He will now return to action next season.”
Rose had last played back in January, in a 0-0 draw against Sunderland and Ben Davies has been his replacement since then. But, Pochettino will agree that Davies isn’t as aggressive as Rose in his approach and that he likes to stay in his defensive third without taking risks. Rose has been paired brilliantly with Kyle Walker on the flanks, who balanced their offensive and defensive duties well.
Pochettino’s wing-back setup worked impeccably with the duo and the Argentine will have to find someone equally offensive in the summer transfer window. Here are three replacements the Argentine manager could go for in the summer to replace Rose-
Kieran Tierney (Celtic):
The Celtic defender is one of the most highly-rated left-backs in the transfer market with his sublime movements on and off the ball. Only 19, the Scottish international is already a regular in the national team and is Celtic’s latest sensation. His pace on the ball makes him shift to a left-winger’s position seamlessly and his brilliant passing makes him one of most mature players in that position at such a nascent age. He has 12 assists and two goals in 38 appearances for Celtic this season.
Juan Bernat (Bayern Munich):
Another brilliant option to have on his side Pochettino Bernat, the Spanish international, is one of the best players in that left-back role. He has played only 17 times so far in Bundesliga, scoring twice and assisting twice. With David Alaba before him in the pecking order at Bayern Munich, the 24-year-old isn’t expecting uninterrupted first-team action anytime soon. Hence, a move for an emerging European superpower won’t be a difficult choice.
Andrew Robertson (Hull City):
Another left-back in the Premier League who has finally risen to prominence after some impressive seasons for Hull City is Andy Robertson. With the Tigers now relegated, it is time the 23-year-old Scotsman leaves KCOM Stadium for bigger dreams. He has been a regular at the club for the past two seasons and is one of few positive aspects amidst a dismal season for Hull City. He has scored once and assisted thrice for Hull in all competitions. He has a surprisingly good technique and a lethal left-foot, which could come in extremely handy from that left-flank.
