Tottenham selected Will Miller at left-back against Juventus.
Juventus’ Paulo Dybala in action with Tottenham’s Will Miller and Ryan Mason
Tottenham youngster Will Miller could not have asked for more testing opponents for his debut for the club, picked to face Juventus.
Miller was in the starting XI in Tottenham’s 2-1 defeat, but most curious was his selection at left-back.
The 20-year-old is more of a midfielder, and an attacking one too. His most natural position is on the left wing, but he is also able to play on the right or centrally as a number 10.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino
The start was an uncomfortable one for him as Spurs’ defence got caught out, but after that to his credit Miller acquitted himself well against established opponents.
Miller made 35 appearance for the under-21 side last season, and not a single one at left-back.
He ended the season even up front, and scored four goals in his last six games and provided two assists.
So his selection against Juventus as a peculiar one, but when it comes to head coach Mauricio Pochettino, fans have learned to be trusting.
Juventus’ Mario Lemina in action with Tottenham’s Will Miller
Pochettino successfully converted Eric Dier from centre-back and back-up right-back to a first choice defensive midfielder, and it is unlikely to be the only position switch he makes during his time at White Hart Lane.
The Argentine has helped Danny Rose really excel at left-back, and he like Miller began as a winger.
The match against Juventus was an exercise for Pochettino to learn more about his players, and Miller may prefer to get his next chance in a more attacking role, but he can have done himself no harm with an assured display in an unfamiliar position.
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