Tottenham star Richarlison is still hoping to make it work at N17 under Thomas Frank.
Tottenham forward Richarlison has endured a ‘stop-start’ campaign under Thomas Frank so far. The Brazilian was linked with an exit for much of the summer, with many fans believing he would have no place in the starting eleven during the Danish tactician’s tenure. But an injury to Dominic Solanke forced the Lilywhites to retain the 28-year-old, with Frank stating that he was willing to give the striker a final chance to prove his worth.
As the club’s top scorer in all competitions this season, it is fair to say Richarlison has partially repaid Frank’s faith by leading the line for the North Londoners. He has scored six goals so far and is on track to reach double figures if he continues as the first-choice striker at N17. In November alone, the Brazilian netted three goals in three consecutive games, showing he still has something to offer in the final third.
Tottenham star Richarlison may stay put at N17 amid Everton links.
Tottenham star Richarlison may stay put at N17 amid Everton links.
However, if Spurs are to close the gap on their rivals this season, they cannot rely solely on Richarlison to deliver under Thomas Frank. The Brazilian is, at best, an effective squad player. He cannot consistently lead the attack, which ultimately hinders the club’s progress in the final third as the season unfolds.
Richarlison is all set to stay at Tottenham in January
Recent reports suggest Richarlison is being linked with a dream return to Everton for the second half of the campaign. The Toffees are in need of a new striker in the winter, with summer signing Thierno Barry struggling to make an impact under David Moyes. They want someone who can make an immediate difference, and have identified the Spurs forward as an ideal option to lead the line at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
However, reliable journalist Dean Jones has provided the latest update on the 28-year-old’s future at N17 amid the Everton speculation. Speaking on the Ranks FC podcast, Jones said:
“I still think he’s eager to prove himself again at Tottenham. Obviously linked with Everton and stuff like that, but Everton aren’t going to put in a big money bid for Richarlison in January. So my hunch is that Richarlison leaves at the end of the season, but it will definitely be a narrative that crops up.”
Jones claims that Richarlison is still not giving up on his Spurs career, with the striker determined to prove his value at N17 this season. This is reinforced by Everton’s inability to sign him in January due to his high valuation. However, Jones believes the Brazilian will leave the Lilywhites next summer, with the Toffees emerging as favourites to secure his signature then.
Spurs must consider cutting their losses with Richarlison in the coming weeks. The striker has run his course at N17 and has little more to offer under Thomas Frank. There are several better options in the market who could provide far greater impact in the final third. And if the North Londoners are serious about closing the gap on their rivals this season, they need to offload players who are no longer contributing on a regular basis and strengthen the squad accordingly.