In a recent interview with Football Insider, ex-West Ham United player Frank McAvennie urged Newcastle United to move in for Tottenham Hotspur playmaker Dele Alli. McAvennie said,
“I think Dele Alli would be the ideal signing for Newcastle.
“If he went there, there would be nowhere to hide. He would play every game and maybe that pressure would help him find his form.
“He’s not played a minute under Conte so maybe he’s not convinced by him yet.
“Newcastle have this money to spend. Alli might be on his way out.
“If they want Premier League quality players, look no further. He’s brilliant on his day.
“Eddie Howe might have issues with his attitude. But if you can solve those issues, you have one hell of a player on your hands.
“I can see that happening if Alli doesn’t work his way back in at Spurs, which is entirely possible.”
Alli’s Up And Down Season In English Football
The 25-year-old has made an average start to this campaign as he struggled to help Spurs pick up favourable results consistently in the Premier League which has led to the sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo. Alli has made 12 appearances for the North London giants this season, registering two goals and one assist on all fronts.
The English talent has worked hard defensively but has failed to give a good account of himself going forward based on his average of 1.9 tackles, 1.3 clearances and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. However, he deserves credit for being tidy when distributing possession, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 81.5% in league football (stats via whoscored).
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What Will Alli Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Team?
Alli has been underperforming for Spurs over the past couple of seasons. However, on his day, he can be a decent playmaker in the opposition half as he has got the knack for creating some inviting chances in and around the opponent’s penalty box.
The 37-time England international can strike the ball with power and precision from long range. But things have just not fallen in place for Alli at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in recent times. Signing someone of the English sensation’s skillset will undoubtedly be an enticing move for Newcastle as they have the financial resources now to bring him to St. James’ Park.
Alli will undeniably improve the quality of Eddie Howe‘s squad. More importantly, he would add more guile and creativity to the Magpies‘ midfield department that might help them steer clear of the relegation zone if Howe can find a way to get him on board this January.
