Harry Winks’ first Premier League start is one he’ll unlikely ever forget.
Tottenham were in the midst of a disappointing run of form having failed to win in seven in all competitions, drawing four consecutive league games, before their welcome of West Ham in mid-November. The match didn’t initially go to plan for Spurs either as Michail Antonio headed the Hammers in front midway through the first half. Six minutes after the interval, however, Winks had drawn the hosts level as the youngster tucked Vincent Janssen’s rebounded effort into an empty net. Cue bedlam at White Hart Lane in a London derby Spurs won 3-2.
It was pertinent that Winks ran straight for head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who celebrated like a proud dad enjoying his son’s first goal. The Argentine was impressed with his work rate and strength in pre-season 12 months ago and felt he was ready for regular first team action. While Winks made just three Premier League starts last season, he was a steady performer when called upon as he also churned out notable showings in the EFL and FA Cup. A memorable outing came in the 2-2 draw with Manchester City.
Spurs lacked the necessary composure to deal with wave after wave of City attack and a thumping at the Etihad Stadium looked to be on the cards. Their task of rescuing a positive result was made all the tougher when Toby Alderweireld was forced off midway through the second half, which saw Victor Wanyama drop back to partner Eric Dier at the heart of the defence. Then 20 years of age, Winks came into the fold for Alderweireld and rather than be overawed by the occasion, brought in an aura of calm, completing all 13 of his passes as the north London side came away with a point.
It was a showing that belied his years, yet is one that fans have become accustomed to. Only Mousa Dembele (92%) had a better pass success rate than Wink (90.2%) of all Spurs players in the Premier League last season, yet he doesn’t pass for the sake of passing, but instead look to push the team forward. A midfielder is expected to impress when on the ball, though pass accuracy may drop when attempting to be more daring in possession but Winks is one who equally makes his passes count and is a tidy performer with the ball at his feet.
This reason, and many more, are why the youngster has rapidly endeared himself to supporters, while as a Spurs fan himself; the North London faithful are keen to see ‘one of their own’ come good. Given his mature outings in a Spurs shirt, the possibilities are endless for Winks. His season was cut short following injury in the 2-0 win at Burnley at the beginning of April, but with the player already back in pre-season training and eager to prove his worth to the head coach, Winks is evidently eager to make up for lost time.
That is an added bonus for Spurs fans, whose only real critique of the player is that he hasn’t taken the number 40 shirt already. His style and proactive approach have seen Winks likened to former Spurs hero Luka Modric and for good reason. He moves the ball in a similar way to the Croatian star and despite their slight frames, are incredibly difficult to muscle out of possession, using their low centre of gravity and positional intelligence to their advantage.
Winks back in February spoke of his fondness for Modric when he was coming through the Spurs ranks, so it’s no shock he bases his game on the Real Madrid sensation. Ahead of a season at Wembley, a player of Winks’ calibre is crucial for the team. The pitch at the national stadium is wider than it was at White Hart Lane, meaning his expansive passing range will help stretch opponents. As Pochettino relies on his flying full-backs to add thrust to the flanks, his distribution qualities would apply pressure to defences.
Pochettino elected against sending Winks on loan last summer, despite ample options in the middle of the park, and was rewarded in the faith shown in the young midfielder. Now a fully-fledged member of the Spurs first team, the foundation is in place for Winks to continue his development under the watchful eye of the Argentine, with his return from injury coming at the opportune time for both player and club.
