Say what you like about Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, but he remains a wonderful goalkeeper on his day.
At 34, the France international is coming into the twilight of his professional career, particularly because he turns 35 in December.
But despite his advancing years, Lloris, a £12 million signing by Tottenham in 2012, remains capable of moments of sheer brilliance.
On Thursday night, the Spurs stopper produced a stunning save to keep out Kevin de Bruyne of Belgium during a Nations League semi-final.
Not only did Lloris get down rapidly from such a short distance, but the strong wrist to stop De Bruyne’s half-volley was the most impressive aspect of the save.
Here’s how some rival fans are reacting to the stop on Twitter:
Classic Lloris
Last night was perhaps the most Hugo Lloris performance of all time.
As mentioned, the former Lyon keeper is undeniably capable of moments of pure magic but, by the same token, he isn’t flawless. Not by any means.
That’s because you might argue that the Tottenham captain could and should’ve done better for at least one of the two goals that Belgium netted, with Didier Deschamps’s side running out 3-2 winners in the end.
But there was also another fine second-half save to deny Roberto Martinez’s once more.
If Lloris could be more consistent, you’re talking about one of the continent’s finest between the sticks.
But although he hasn’t been Mr Reliable for the North Londoners in recent years, last night was a reminder that he can still keep out Europe’s best when he wants to.
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