Les Ferdinand was asked about Xavi Simons’ performance, but instead he highlighted the display of Archie Gray against Atletico Madrid.
Tottenham secured their first win under Igor Tudor, defeating Atletico Madrid 3-2 in the Champions League, with Simons running the show.
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But Gray was also one of Spurs’ best performers on a very encouraging night at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
After the game, Ferdinand spoke about both players’ performance in the 3-2 win, and he was certainly right to highlight the young Spurs midfielder.
Les Ferdinand praises the ‘brilliant’ Archie Gray vs Atletico Madrid
Les Ferdinand believes that Archie Gray was ‘brilliant’ against Atletico Madrid as the Tottenham midfielder showed signs of finally hitting his potential.
During this tough period for Tottenham, Gray has really stepped up, and his display against Atleti showed why Spurs paid £40 million to sign him.
Real Madrid want to sign Gray and his display against their rivals showed why, as he managed 57 touches, two successful dribbles, two key passes and nine recoveries.
Speaking about Simons’ goal, Ferdinand told TNT Sports: “I’m glad he did this, because he stayed on the floor after their goal, but he picked the ball up in a good place.
“But again, Archie Gray nicking the ball in the midfield, and I thought he was brilliant tonight, Archie Gray, played a one-two with Simons, and that’s a great finish.”
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Meanwhile, Owen Hargreaves also hailed the 20-year-old’s performance, adding: “Archie was fabulous!
“That’s a great finish from Xavi Simons, but the one thing Archie did well was that he pressed the ball and was aggressive.
“When he wants, he can play quickly. I think sometimes in these games, players take too many touches. Archie did everything very quickly, and I thought he was incredibly effective.”
Marcos Llorente acknowledges Archie Gray’s performance
Just before he was subbed off, Marcos Llorente acknowledged Gray’s performance by going over to him and shaking his hand.
Michael Bridge spotted the Spanish midfielder showing a clear appreciation for the youngster, who was excellent against Diego Simeone’s team.
Llorente has been one of the best midfielders in Europe over the last ten years, so it is certainly huge praise to receive acknowledgement from him.
Gray is now the first name on the teamsheet for the Lilywhites and will be key for this weekend’s clash against Nottingham Forest.
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