Tottenham have certainly produced a number of exciting young players in recent years, while also making the most of any prospects transferred in.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino
Tottenham Hotspur’s progress under Mauricio Pochettino is impressive, and even more so when you look at the make up of the Argentine’s squad. Despite second and third place finishes over the last couple of seasons, Spurs continue to have the youngest side in the Premier League. Many of their top players are 23-years-old or younger, with a number of academy talents also threatening to break into the first team squad.
Below is a Spurs XI made up of players at the club who are 23-years-and younger:
GK Pau Lopez 22-years-old
The Spanish stopper may not have made an appearance during his loan season with the Londoners, but he could yet have a future at Tottenham, according to the Standard. Whether he completes a permanent move or not, much is expected of the 22-year-old, who is currently involved with his country’s European Under-21 Championship challenge. Even if he does leave, Spurs have homegrown 21-year-old Luke McGee as backup, fresh from his player of the year-winning loan with Peterborough United.
DR Kyle Walker-Peters 20
One of two World Cup winners in this line-up, expect to see more of the versatile fullback during the coming campaign after his impressive performances at the Under-20 showcase tournament in South Korea. Still yet to make his debut despite featuring on the bench in several matches, there are suggestions that he will be fast tracked into the first team picture if Kyle Walker is sold this summer, such is the confidence in his potential.
DL Luke Amos 20
Arguably the lowest-profile player on this list, utility youngster Luke Amos nevertheless caught the eye in pre-season friendlies last summer and will be hoping to impress Mauricio Pochettino again ahead of the new season. Had a short spell on loan at League One outfit Southend United in the spring.
DC Cameron Carter-Vickers 19
Tottenham’s Cameron Carter-Vickers in action with Wycombe Wanderers’ Adebayo Akinfenwa
The United States youngster made his first team debut in the season just gone, and remains the club’s fourth option at centre back. After a couple of years training with the first team, next season could be an opportunity for the defender to get more minutes either in cups or on loan.
DC Eric Dier 23
When he was signed by Tottenham in 2014, Dier was still not a regular member of previous club Sporting’s starting lineup. Fast forward three seasons and the defender/midfielder has 135 appearances for the North Londoners and is a crucial figure in the England setup. Earmarked as captain material, Dier is one of a number of players who has been linked with big money exits this summer.
MC Dele Alli 21
Tottenham and England’s Dele Alli during training
Arguably the one destined to become a Bale-like global superstar at Tottenham, the way in which Alli has maintained his stunning form whatever level he plays at his hard to believe. Only recently turned 21, Alli’s 22 goals last season underlined his talent and proved that Spurs really do have a world-beater on their hands. The likes of Real Madrid are likely to come in this summer or in the future, but any suitors are likely going to have to pay the world’s first nine-figure fee if they want to convince Daniel Levy to sell.
MC Harry Winks 21
After a superb breakthrough campaign, Harry Winks’ season was cruelly ended early with an ankle injury. But there is no doubt that Mauricio Pochettino is a fan and will be eager to get him back into the first team as soon as possible. A future full England international according to most fans, the 21-year-old’s ability to mix tenacity with quality on the ball make him the perfect ‘mini-Mousa’, and his blatant love for the club certainly endears him to all associated with Tottenham.
MR Josh Onomah 20
Another of the club’s academy jewels, Onomah may have felt that the 2016/17 season was a disappointment considering the progress he made the year before, but if his performances during England’s Under-20 World Cup win were anything to go by, he will be given plenty of chances in the coming campaign. Onomah’s strength and dribbling ability in South Korea was also reminiscent of midfield favourite Dembele, and a deeper central midfield role may be where his future lies.
ML Georges-Kevin Nkoudou 22
Tottenham’s Georges-Kevin Nkoudou in a sensible shirt
Likely in supporters’ bad books after that Instagram picture, French winger Nkoudou had displayed promise in his few appearances under Mauricio Pochettino. Quick, skilful and prepared to work hard tracking back, it remains to be seen whether he’ll still be in North London next season, but considering his age he is well worth giving another season.
ST Vincent Janssen 23
The Netherlands international was much criticised by sections of the fanbase after a first season in the Premier League that saw plenty of effort, but minimal goals from open play. But it’s easy to forget that the striker only recently turned 23, and can still be classed as a young player. He’s still netting goals at international level, so don’t be surprised if he impresses in his second season at Tottenham.
ST Harry Kane 23
It’s amazing to find out that Harry Kane is just one goal off 100 for Tottenham, and this summer added the England captaincy to his list of achievements – all before the age of 24. That landmark comes in July, and there is no denying that if the boyhood Spurs fan – two time Premier League top scorer – remains with the club there are likely to be records tumbling left and right.
Tottenham’s Harry Kane celebrates scoring
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