Serge Aurier was finally handed the first-team opportunity this season when he started against Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon. And he didn’t disappoint either, coming out as one of the best performers in an emphatic 4-0 win over the Eagles.
Aurier was on the verge of leaving Tottenham in the recently concluded summer transfer window. But in this article, we will discuss why Mauricio Pochettino should make the Ivorian his first-choice right-back this season.
Experience could be key
Aurier initially arrived at Tottenham only two years ago when he joined from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of €25 million. Since then, he has made only 26 Premier League appearances, often being overlooked in favour of Kieran Trippier.
Having said that, the Ivorian international had made 81 competitive appearances with PSG and 80 while playing for Toulouse. Overall, Aurier has notched up an impressive 160 Ligue 1 appearances, which makes him one of the more experienced members of the current Tottenham squad.
Kyle Walker-Peters, in contrast, has featured in only 22 matches for Spurs. And given the competitive nature of the Premier League, it would perhaps be wiser for Pochettino to opt for the experienced defender at right-back.
Ideal player for the Champions League
After reaching the final of the UEFA Champions League last season, Tottenham Hotspur will be keen to impress in the coveted competition this time around. Walker-Peters’ lack of experience at the highest level of football, in that regard, might be problematic, especially when the Lilywhites take on the likes of Bayern Munich and the likes.
Aurier, to that end, is the ideal Champions League player for the club. As iterated earlier, the Ivorian has a vast amount of experience in the French top flight. But most importantly, he has played in the Champions League as well during his time at PSG.
This experience in the UCL could be invaluable for a Tottenham side, who are relatively new to this competition when compared to other big teams in Europe.
Perfect tactical player for Spurs
What makes Aurier such a key component for Tottenham Hotspur is his skill set. Indeed, the 26-year-old is known for his aggression and tenacity – qualities that are ideal for any fullback working under Pochettino’s tactical philosophy.
Additionally, the ex-Lens academy star is an excellent crosser of the ball while his physical prowess makes him an ideal fit for the athletic nature of the Premier League. Therefore, Pochettino should definitely integrate him into a regular first-team starter for Tottenham this season.
