Timo Werner was breathing a sigh of relief on Saturday when he scored his first Tottenham goal during his side’s comeback win against Crystal Palace.
In January, many were left surprised when Ange Postecoglou’s side decided to bring in the former Chelsea man on a loan deal until the end of the season.
Add in the injuries, plus the fact that Son Heung-min was heading to the Asian Cup, more legs were needed upfront.
But the call to bring in Timo Werner caused a debate, including for ex-Crystal Palace man John Salako who said he was ‘surprised’ by that move, as he told Stadium Astro.
Those comments were made before Spurs’ win on Saturday, including John Salako claiming that he ‘isn’t a big fan’ of the player and how he hasn’t improved the team.
Of course, that ended up biting him in the back because who starts Tottenham’s comeback? None other than their much-criticised loan signing.
That was his first goal for the club and it has left the Palace pundit with egg on his face because that’s the only way to your talking.
Timo Werner shuts up critics
On if Werner has improved Spurs: “No,” responded Salako. “Not for me, I am not a big fan. He has done well in Germany and I wasn’t a great fan of his at Chelsea.
“He’s quick and runs offside quite a lot. I don’t think he is somebody who can drop into holes and be intelligent by coming inside and linking up with Richarlison or Son and create a bit of dynamism.”
Ex-Spurs man Michael Brown then asked: “Why is he picking him every game then? He has got other choices in that area. It was interesting when I saw him come into the building. Did they need that type of player? Did they? But they keep picking him.”
Salako added: “No, I was surprised – when he starts on the left, I don’t think he strengthens Spurs.”
Tottenham’s trip to Aston Villa
This is going to be huge and possibly defining for the club in their quest to secure Champions League football at the end of the season.
As of this moment, the London club are five points behind, but they have a game in hand.
If you are Aston Villa, you would prefer the points on the board, but Spurs will still feel that destiny is in their hands.
Win at Villa Park and their game in hand against Chelsea, then they take command of fourth spot.
But, even a draw next week suits Unai Emery’s men, who scored a late, late goal to beat Luton Town on Saturday.
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