Rafa Benitez has stated that he is hoping that Andros Townsend can draw some kind of ‘motivation’ to prove a point against Tottenham today, as he told his Everton press conference.
The 30-year-old came through Tottenham’s ranks as a youngster, before spending several years playing for the North London club, which included him earning England calls.
But that journey ended for the winger in 2016 and he is now thriving in the colours of Everton.
Spurs have a new man in their dugout in Antonio Conte and he will be hoping to provide an early bounce for his players.
Ahead of that match, Benitez was asked whether this is the game where the in-form Townsend will want to ‘thrive’ and ‘do well’ against his former club.
“I think he is a great professional and he is doing well for us,” said Benitez.
“So, these kinds of games could be some motivation for the players and hopefully it will be like that.
“If you analyse the past, without spending any money, these two players (Gray and Townsend) I think they are making a big difference for the team.”
Even though Townsend was a free transfer this summer, after leaving Crystal Palace, he is actually performing like a big-money signing.
In 12 games in all competitions this season, he has five goals and three assists to his name and he will be hoping to add to that tally today.
As the Spurs fans are well aware, when Townsend does unleash that left-foot of his, the flying winger can produce some dynamite goals.
Therefore, not allowing him onto his favoured left foot has to be the main priority for a Tottenham side that have some of the worst attacking and defensive numbers in the league this term.
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