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Michael Owen delivers verdict on futures of linked-away Tottenham players
Michael Owen has told BT Sport 3’s Champions League highlights (Wednesday, 9.30am) that he believes Jose Mourinho has increased the chances of Tottenham keeping those who are being linked with exits – as their contracts continue to wind down.
Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld and Christian Eriksen are all in the final months of their current deals. Danny Rose’s contract ends in the summer of 2021, and has been very honest in the media as claiming he will leave when his deal expires.
That was under Mauricio Pochettino, but former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Mourinho has since been hired by Daniel Levy. Spurs have won two games in two under the Portuguese gaffer, coming from two down to beat Olympiacos 4-2.
Liverpool legend Owen reckons those who had their head turned with a move away from Spurs could now be tempted to stay and sign new deals, because of the change from Pochettino to Mourinho.
“It is definitely a more difficult job to score goals for Harry Kane without Eriksen,” Owen said. “You feel that Tottenham will have more chance of keeping the players that have contractual problems, now that Mourinho is at the club.”
TBR’s view – Which players should Spurs look to keep?
Alderweireld has been excellent in both games under Mourinho, showing plenty of passion and charisma. He is winning fans back over. Jan Vertonghen remained an unused substitute on Tuesday night against Olympiacos.
Vertonghen has lost a yard of pace and will be 33 before the end of his current deal. Eriksen was a sub against West Ham andwas very good against Olympiacos, laying on an assist for Harry Kane’s second goal from his free-kick.
But Rose was at fault for the first goal, as he gave away possessio cheaply before switching off from a corner. Keeping Alderweireld is key, and if Eriksen is up for the fight, then Spurs should look to keep him too. But Rose and Vertonghen are spent forces.
