Key Points
- Tottenham Hotspur are prioritising a new long-term contract for defender Micky van de Ven, described as “more important than any transfer” by club insiders.
- The 24-year-old Netherlands international currently earns around £90,000 per week and has been one of Spurs’ standout performers despite the team’s struggles.
- Van de Ven has scored six goals in 23 appearances this season, including a phenomenal solo goal against Copenhagen in the Champions League.
- He has captained Tottenham on six occasions and remains a defensive stalwart amid injuries to key players like James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.
- Spurs sit 14th in the Premier League table after a 2-1 loss to Liverpool, marred by red cards to Xavi Simons and Cristian Romero.
- Upcoming match: Tottenham face Crystal Palace in a derby at Selhurst Park, where Van de Ven will need a new defensive partner due to suspensions.
- Potential replacements for the suspended players include Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin, Ben Davies, or Kota Takai alongside Van de Ven.
- Report originates from The Athletic, with additional coverage from Sports Mole highlighting the club’s downturn under Thomas Frank.
Why is Tottenham Prioritising Micky van de Ven’s Contract Extension?
Tottenham’s push for Van de Ven’s renewal underscores his pivotal role in a season plagued by injuries and disciplinary issues. The defender has featured in 23 matches across all competitions, netting six goals – a remarkable tally for a centre-back.
Sports Mole’s coverage emphasises Van de Ven’s standout contributions, including a “phenomenal solo goal against Copenhagen” in the Champions League. That strike came during a 4-1 victory that showcased Spurs’ Europa League pedigree, as detailed in their match report on the fixture.
Furthermore, Van de Ven has donned the captain’s armband on six occasions this term, demonstrating leadership qualities that have endeared him to manager Thomas Frank. Despite the Dane’s side enduring a “dramatic downturn in fortunes,” Van de Ven has shone at both ends of the pitch.
As noted by Sports Mole journalists, injuries to creative talents James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have hampered Frank’s options, yet Van de Ven remains a defensive stalwart. His partnership at the back has been disrupted, but his individual brilliance persists.
What Challenges Does Thomas Frank Face Ahead of Crystal Palace Clash?
Thomas Frank’s Tottenham head into Sunday’s derby at Selhurst Park on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, a match defined by “red mist” and indiscipline. Sports Mole’s report on the game highlights how Xavi Simons’s “terrible tackle on Virgil van Dijk” resulted in a straight red card and a three-game suspension for the Dutchman.
Compounding the issue, Cristian Romero picked up a second yellow for kicking out at Ibrahima Konate, leaving Spurs with nine men. Sports Mole described the loss as Spurs being “beaten by sloppy Merseysiders,” with the capital side’s discipline proving costly.
Frank must now improvise his defence without Simons and Romero. Micky van de Ven is expected to anchor the backline, potentially partnered by one of Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin, Ben Davies, or Kota Takai, according to Sports Mole’s analysis.
The Lilywhites’ lowly 14th position in the Premier League rankings reflects broader struggles, but Van de Ven’s form offers a silver lining. The Athletic’s Charlie Eccleshare notes that securing his future is paramount, potentially eclipsing January transfer ambitions.
How Has Micky van de Ven Performed This Season?
Van de Ven’s statistics paint a picture of excellence amid chaos. In 23 appearances, he has scored six goals, contributing offensively in a way few defenders can match.
His highlight-reel moment arrived in the Champions League against Copenhagen, where Sports Mole lauded his “phenomenal solo goal” in a match dubbed
“Super Simons: Spurs trounce Copenhagen in Champions League response to criticism.”
That performance silenced doubters and reaffirmed his value.
Beyond goals, Van de Ven’s six captaincies highlight his maturity. The Athletic reports that Tottenham view him as a long-term asset, with the proposed contract aiming to fend off interest from rivals.
Sports Mole further contextualises his impact: despite injuries sidelining Maddison and Kulusevski, Van de Ven has been
“one of the Lilywhites’ best performers at both ends of the pitch.”
His wages, currently at £90,000 per week, could rise significantly to match the club’s elite earners.
Who Are the Potential Defensive Partners for Van de Ven?
With suspensions biting, Frank faces selection dilemmas. Sports Mole lists Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin, Ben Davies, and Kota Takai as viable options to join Van de Ven at Selhurst Park.
Each brings unique attributes: Danso offers aerial prowess, Dragusin provides solidity, Davies versatility, and Takai youthful energy. Yet, none have matched Van de Ven’s all-around influence this season.
The Athletic’s insight into Spurs’ January plans suggests that while transfers loom, Van de Ven’s extension takes precedence. Charlie Eccleshare writes that the club
“hope to tie Van de Ven down to a new-and-improved long-term contract.”
What Does This Mean for Tottenham’s Season and Transfer Strategy?
Tottenham’s woes under Thomas Frank – from injuries to red cards – have overshadowed their Europa League success. The 2-1 Liverpool loss, as dissected by Sports Mole, exposed vulnerabilities, with Simons’s red card on Van Dijk and Romero’s dismissal on Konate proving decisive.
Yet, Van de Ven endures as a constant. The Athletic positions his contract as a cornerstone, potentially more vital than incoming signings. This strategy signals faith in youth and retention over revolution.
As Spurs prepare for Palace, Frank will lean on Van de Ven’s leadership. Sports Mole’s Premier League table preview underscores the urgency: 14th place demands a response.
In broader context, Tottenham’s campaign blends highs – like the Copenhagen rout – with lows. Van de Ven’s six goals and captaincies embody resilience, making his extension a shrewd move.
Journalists across outlets agree: for Tottenham, retaining Micky van de Ven is not just desirable; it is essential. As The Athletic and Sports Mole converge, the £90k-a-week star’s future could define Spurs’ trajectory.
