Paul Merson told Super Sunday on Sky Sports that Tanguy Ndombele is a ‘special’ player for Tottenham.
The TV pundit also added that Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who was purchased last summer, has been a success for Spurs during this under-whelming campaign.
Tottenham finished the season securing a Europa League conference place despite starting the season wanting a trophy and Champions League football.
But Merson likes the look of Ndombele but just thinks the £54 million star (BBC Sport) needs someone to allow him to ‘express’ himself.
“They haven’t been huge successes a lot of them (recent signings),” said Merson. “But they haven’t played under a manager (who can express themselves).
“Ndombele is a good player. £54 million in this day and age is a cup of tea. If you’re not going for £40 million now then you’re really not a player, are you? I’m not being horrible but it’s true.
“If you get him into a team where he can express himself then I think he’s a special player.
“You say who has been a success this season then I say Hojbjerg. Why? Because he’s a defensive midfield player. And that’s the problem. They haven’t had a coach who can get out and express themselves.”
It’s understandable why Hojbjerg produced the goods under Jose Mourinho because he has a natural aggression to his game and he loves a tackle.
But Ndombele is more of a flair player and ball-carrier, yet he was another who worked well under Mourinho.
When Ryan Mason took charge of Tottenham, the Frenchman’s time in the starting XI decreased, with the likes of Harry Winks failing to make an impact in his absence.
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