Ledley King has made it clear that Matt Doherty’s absence isn’t the reason why Tottenham have hit a bad patch, as he told Premier League Productions (23/04/22 at 7:40 pm).
The former centre-back added that Doherty, prior to his season-ending injury, was having his ‘best spell’ in north London.
During the two games, since the £15 million defender (Guardian) has been out of action, Spurs were beaten 1-0 by Brighton and then a goalless draw at Brentford over the weekend.
Added with that, Antonio Conte has watched his players fail to have a single shot on target during those games.
When King was asked whether Doherty’s absence has played a part in that, he disagreed with that claim.
“There’s no doubt he was performing and having his best spell in a Spurs shirt during the last few weeks and before his injury,” said King.
“I don’t think you can pin it down to that – Emerson Royal should be capable in that position.
“You are right to mention that, during these past two games, Matt hasn’t played. But it’s more to it than that.”
From Doherty’s perspective, it was a big shame that the player is now going to miss the rest of the season.
Under Jose Mourinho and Nuno Espirito Santo, he has struggled to cement a regular place in the team.
Even during Conte’s early reign, the attack-minded fullback was struggling, up until recently.
But, from his perspective, ahead of next season, he has probably done enough to remain in Conte’s long-term plans.
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