Andros Townsend is currently the subject of much intrigue and expectation after he provided a scintillating display and a stunning goal in England‘s critical win over Montenegro.
Despite it being his debut internationally, Townsend played without fear all night and looked a constant threat when attacking his man, looking to shoot or cross. He was subsequently awarded the Man of the Match award.
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Much of the post-match hype was about the Tottenham man, who looks set to be offered a much improved contract from his club.
Roy Hodgson, the England Manager, deserves credit for picking Townsend, and it will be interesting to see if the young winger can maintain his form.
Critically for Tottenham, he has been with the club since childhood and is a fan of the team. So he may turn down other big opportunities to stay with Spurs.
But, as of right now, he wouldn’t be regarded as stupidly loyal. It’s a good time for Tottenham, who are rich in talent all over the pitch, possessing one of the strongest squads in the Premier League.
The Gareth Bale comparisons are inevitable. But Townsend is much more of a one-dimensional player, who will look to beat his man and create a chance or go for goal.
He is comparable with Bayern Munich star Arjen Robben. Of course he hasn’t reached that level in terms of quality and consistency, but they share a similar attack-minded philosophy.
Townsend has been criticized in the past for his decision making due to his tendency to ignore other players in the attack and go for goal himself.
Whilst it’s important for a young player to understand the importance of passing to those who are in a better position, the selfish and driven mindset of the player is impressive.