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Jermaine Jenas identifies what impressed him about Tottenham star Carlos Vinicius

Will Butcher

Fri 23 October 2020 7:15, UK

Jermaine Jenas heaped praise on new Tottenham Hotspur striker Carlos Vinicius during commentary of the north London side’s 3-0 win over LASK on BT Sport – stating he was most impressed by the Brazilian’s creativity.

Vinicius, 25, was one of seven major signings made by Jose Mourinho in the summer – also bringing in Gareth Bale, Joe Hart, Joe Rodon, Matt Doherty, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Sergio Reguilon. He joins initially on loan.

He was handed his first appearance on Thursday, as Spurs played host to Austrian side LASK in their first Europa League group stage outing. At 6ft 3in, you would be forgiven for thinking Vinicius would be used as a target man.

Instead, the Brazilian showed both sides of the game – ability in the air but also plenty of technique. It was the striker’s creativity – which saw him create two goals – that impressed former Spurs midfielder Jenas.

“He’s got a good touch, and what has really impressed me about Vinicius is his ability to bring others into play. He might not have got the goal that he has deserved, but he has got two lovely assists,” Jenas said.

TBR’s view – Different to Janssen and Llorente

Although it is just one game, against an Austrian Europa League side, the early signs are promising. His 24 goals for Benfica last season is a stunning feat, but it is clear to see how he achieved that with his performance on Thursday.

Janssen was a powerful striker but lacked the movement, athleticism and creation of Vinicius. Llorente is just as good in the air, but was edging towards the end of his career and certainly lacked the speed of Vinicius.

Instead of acting as back-up to Kane, Spurs might well have added a striker that can compete with the England skipper. He has it all, as per his debut performance.