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Manager explains why ‘excellent’ Tottenham loanee was dropped from starting line-up yesterday
Whilst it’s been a quiet week or so for Tottenham Hotspur, some of the club’s players out on loan have been in action.
Ange Postecoglou and his team clearly decided to make better use of the loan market this season, with several players improving elsewhere.
The likes of Sergio Reguilon and Joe Rodon have been potentially increasing their sell-on value for this summer, with both enjoying success on their respective loans.
And then there’s also Tottenham’s young players who are seeking to develop their game with a first team chance in mind.
Of course, Plymouth Argyle have made the lives of Tottenham fans wishing to follow that progress a bit easier this season, taking both Ashley Phillips and Alfie Devine on loan.
And although both have enjoyed strong performances since arriving in January, neither started in yesterday’s incredibly impressive 2-0 away win at Middlesborough.
Both Phillips and Devine have started every game in the Championship for Plymouth since arriving, but dropped to the bench following a 3-0 loss to West Bromwich Albion in midweek.
And speaking to after the game, manager Ian Foster explained his decision to drop the duo.
Ian Foster decided on loan Tottenham defender Ashley Phillips needed a break
It’s not too surprising to see Devine drop out of the starting line up, managers often like to freshen up their attack.
But it certainly was a shock to see Phillips on the bench, a player Foster has previously called ‘excellent’.
However, when explaining his call, Foster seemed to suggest it wasn’t a permanent move.
He said: “We have to manage the players in these instances.
“Ashley Phillips is an 18-year-old kid who has come in and played every game for me from the start. Alfie Devine has come in and been excellent for us.
“These players just need a break at times.”
Of course this could prove to be a positive experience for the on loan Tottenham duo, who do clearly have big potential.
But dealing with disappointment and reacting to such a loss and spell on the sidelines is part of football.
That being said, a Tottenham youngster who’s remained with the club this year, Jamie Donley, has now called a first team player ‘unbelievable’ in training.