Micky van de Ven has quickly become an important player at Tottenham Hotspur and Thomas Frank
Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven is once again in the spotlight for all the right reasons this season. The Dutchman has made tremendous progress under Thomas Frank, making an impact at both ends of the pitch. He has proven why he is considered one of the best defenders in the Premier League, playing a vital role in helping the North London club climb up to third in the league table.
The 24-year-old’s recent display against Everton earned him widespread praise from fans and media alike. He was deservedly named Man of the Match after a stellar performance in both defence and attack. To everyone’s surprise, Van de Ven scored a first-half brace against the Toffees, the first of his career. Captaining the side on the day, he also helped Spurs keep a clean sheet against David Moyes’ men.
Micky van de Ven has quickly become an important player at Tottenham Hotspur and Thomas Frank.
Micky van de Ven set to stay put at Tottenham despite Real Madrid transfer links.
It’s worth noting that Van de Ven didn’t score a single goal last season. Now, the Dutch defender already has five goals in his first 13 appearances of the campaign, making him the club’s top scorer so far. He has been leading from the front for Spurs while continuing to build a rock-solid partnership with Cristian Romero at the back.
Micky van de Ven to stay put at Tottenham despite strong transfer links
Van de Ven’s impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid reportedly showing strong interest in signing him next summer. The Spanish giants are said to be preparing a big-money move as they look to reinforce their defence under Xabi Alonso. However, recent reports suggest that Tottenham are in no mood to part ways with their star centre-back and have placed a €100 million price tag on him to fend off potential suitors.
Thomas Frank has since addressed the growing speculation and put an end to the rumours linking Van de Ven with a move to Real Madrid. Speaking in his pre-match presser (via Tottenham Hotspur), Frank said,
“Yeah, very happy with Micky. I think he’s been brilliant for the club since he signed. I think I said it yesterday as well, I think he’s taken some steps up this season. I think he actually defended even better. I think he’s still very good on the ball. I think he added the goals, the headed goals, which I’m very happy with.”
The Spurs boss added,
“He’s a threat on set pieces. Character, leadership also growing. So, as far as I know, we have a good contract with him but definitely a player I see a big future in here in the club. I think he’s happy here. That’s very important. We are happy with him.”
Micky van de Ven has already taken some massive strides this season and cemented his place in the starting eleven. The Dutchman has been a vital part of the setup under Thomas Frank, helping Tottenham to play out from the back, as well as, making an impact on both ends of the football pitch. And that is exactly why Thomas Frank wants to keep him at N17 beyond next summer. The Danish tactician sees Van de Ven as a key player in the dressing room, and admits that the 24-year-old is also open to extend his stay at Hotspur Way after becoming part of the club’s leadership group.
Spurs CEO Vinai Venkatesham is now prioritising extending Van de Ven’s contract at N17 in the coming weeks, sending a clear message that the Dutchman is an integral part of the club’s long-term future. The 24-year-old has all the attributes to reach his potential in North London, and that is exactly why Tottenham are moving fast to secure his signature for the foreseeable future.
Let’s see how Van de Ven’s game develops under Thomas Frank. Fans will hope that he leads the Lilywhites to yet another trophy this season as they look to compete on all fronts. Will the 24-year-old etch his name in the club’s history books once again? Only time will tell.