Paul Robinson has told Sky Sports News (Wednesday, 11.19AM) that the fact Eric Dier and Ben Davies are still in the Tottenham side is proof that Spurs have failed to evolve since Mauricio Pochettino’s exit from the club in 2019.
Dier remains first choice at Spurs in the middle of the back three, while Wales star Davies is arguably the first pick ahead of Clement Lenglet on the left of the defence. He has even been used as a left wing-back in recent weeks.
Both players joined Spurs during Pochettino’s era. But, Spurs have failed to progress since the club reached the final of the Champions League under Pochettino – and certainly, since the Argentine was sacked. Dier and Davies remain.
Asked about a return for Pochettino as a replacement for Antonio Conte, Robinson said the ex-Spurs boss would look at the squad and be surprised at a lack of progression since his exit. Highlighted, by Dier and Davies still at Spurs.
“If Pochettino comes in, he will look around that dressing room and think Ben Davies, you’re still here. Eric Dier, you’re still here. This club haven’t evolved since Pochettino left, in the way they should have done,” Robinson told Sky Sports.
Robinson: Dier and Davies proof that Tottenham have failed to evolve
It is perhaps harsh on Dier and Davies. Dier’s form under Conte has been largely good, winning his place back in the England squad since Conte arrived at Spurs. For Davies, he has been unerringly consistent during his time at Spurs.
Indeed, the Wales ace actually surpassed 300 games for Tottenham on the weekend. But, Spurs have failed to progress and given they reached the Champions League final, they needed to sign better options. They need better defenders.
Put it this way, Davies and Dier would struggle to get into the best teams in the Premier League. Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United for example. They start for Spurs, but they’d struggle to do so at any of those three clubs.
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