Alderweireld has worked his way back into Mauricio Pochettino’s Tottenham plans.
Paul Merson has heaped huge praise on Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld on Sky Sports, claiming he is one of the best defenders in World football.
Alderweireld, 29, has earned his place back in Spurs’ side under Mauricio Pochettino after a disappointing 2017-18 campaign in which he only managed 14 Premier League appearances.
But this time around, the 86-time Belgium international has already played eight of Spurs’ nine Premier League matches, showing fans and pundits alike that he is one of the best.
Former Arsenal man and renowned pundit Merson was asked to pick between the former Southampton man and Manchester City’s John Stones, ahead of next Monday’s clash between City and Spurs – and he chose the Belgian.
“I think Alderweireld is one of the best defenders in the world,” Merson said. “I never see him get the run-around and he always looks solid. Stones has still got a ricket in him.
“He does not need to do some of things he does – he could have eight solid games on the trot but before long he will give you a chance. Alderweireld is the complete defender, plus, he has more experience which is key for a centre-back.”
Alderweireld, who followed Pochettino to Spurs from Southampton, may not be a Tottenham player much longer, with his £80,000-a-week (Spotrac) contract set to expire at the end of the season.
He is expected to start against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday night in the Champions League, as Spurs look to improve on their losses to Inter Milan and Barcelona.
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