Thomas Hitzlsperger commented on French youngster Benjamin Pavard and it should be encouraging reading for Tottenham Hotspur fans.
The former Germany midfielder used to play for Stuttgart – Pavard’s current club, although who knows for how much longer – and he remembers clearly when the youngster made his debut a couple of seasons ago.
Now the 22-year-old is featuring for France at the World Cup in Russia and, barring a slightly shaky opener against Australia, has been excellent playing at right-back for Les Bleus.
Hitzlsperger said: “Benjamin has been a revelation at Stuttgart and it is his technique that has always stood out. It is remarkably complete for a 22-year-old and one of the reasons why he earned a call-up to France’s World Cup squad.
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“That decision caused surprise, particularly in France, but to people who have watched him perform in Germany, and especially those of us who have worked with him at Stuttgart, it made sense, and after his wonder goal against Argentina it appears Benjamin is finally getting the wider recognition he deserves.
“I expect France to win [against Uruguay in the quarter-final] because, on the whole, they have the better individuals. Among them the right-back, a player who has come out of nowhere to become one of the best young talents in world football. Remember the name – Benjamin Pavard.”
Hitzlsperger words will set tongues wagging in north London, with Corriere dello Sport having recently reported that Tottenham are interested in the versatile defender.
With Toby Alderweireld’s future at the club still unclear, and Serge Aurier having failed to convince in his first season for Spurs following his move from Paris Saint-Germain, Pavard could make for an astute signing by Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino – especially following Hitzlsperger’s rave review.
Spurs would have competition to sign him though, with the Mirror reporting that Napoli are also keen to sign the youngster this summer.
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