The 18 years old makes it to Ange first 11 squad against Burnley… Is this a good decision?
Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou is likely to ring the chances in Friday night’s FA Cup third-round meeting with Burnley.
Spurs have come a long way since the end of last season and look like they have a very bright future ahead of them.
However, Tottenham have also been seriously affected by players being unavailable due to injury and suspension in recent weeks.
In addition, Spurs also have a number of players that will be competing at the Asian Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, depleting their ranks further.
With all that in mind, we’re likely to see a number of changes. And perhaps we could finally see a long-awaited debut for one of Tottenham’s summer signings.
England Under-21 defender Ashley Phillips joined Spurs from Blackburn Rovers in the summer for a reported £3million fee.
Although the 18-year-old joined Tottenham as a player for the future, he was expected to make his debut earlier on in the season.
Tottenham Hotspur talent Ashley Phillips “has got every attribute”
Postecoglou was reportedly ready to hand Phillips his debut in November, but sadly an injury he picked up on international duty put paid to that.
Since returning to action, the teenager has made three Premier League matchday squads in a row.
And with Spurs currently in the midst of a defensive crisis, the FA Cup third round is as good a time as ever for him to start.
Despite being just 18, Phillips already has senior experience from his time at Blackburn, and he looks like a start in the making.
Speaking about Phillips during his time managing at Ewood Park, former Blackburn manager Tony Mowbray said, as per the Evening Standard: “He’s 6ft 4in, he’s fast, mobile and can pass it really well.
“He can use both feet, he’s composed. Ash is just a phenomenal young boy. If you were to create a defender in the mold of how you would want one, this kid has got every attribute.”
Let’s see what happens on Friday night, but it looks as though a first Spurs start for Phillips is very likely.
