Tottenham Hotspur star Xavi Simons has been labelled as 'stupid' and a 'terrible signing' by talkSPORT presenter Jeff Stelling following Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.
The Dutchman has flattered to deceive for much of the season following his summer move from RB Leipzig, but had started to look more at home in recent weeks under Thomas Frank.
However, he let Tottenham's manager down in the first half against Arne Slot's side as his tackle on Netherlands compatriot Virgil van Dijk was punished with a red card after an intervention by VAR.
Xavi Simons Tackle was 'Not Accidental'
Tottenham's clash with Liverpool had been very uneventful until Simons' tackle on Liverpool captain Van Dijk, which initially produced a yellow card from referee John Brooks.
However, the match official was called to the monitor by VAR, where he changed his mind and showed the Dutchman a red card having reviewed the footage.
Simons spoke out on Instagram after the match to say he would never intentionally try to hurt an opponent, apologising to Van Dijk, his teammates, Thomas Frank and Spurs fans.
However, former Sky Sports host and now talkSPORT presenter Stelling was in no mood to show support for the 22-year-old after one fan said he felt sorry for the forward, posting on X:
Feel for him? It was stupid, done with intent - not accidental - and he has let his team down. Been a terrible signing for Spurs.
Strong comments from Stelling, both in terms of the incident and Simons' time at Tottenham in general.
Simons Can Still be a Tottenham Success
Expectations were understandably high when Tottenham signed Simons in a deal worth more than £50m from RB Leizpig in the summer, with the attacker considered to be one of the most exciting young talents in Europe.
However, it has been a slow start to his career in English football, with two goals and three assists in 22 matches so far for Spurs.
The red card is hardly a help for Simons as he looks to build some confidence and momentum at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - something that has been lacking to date.
Sometimes players can take time to adapt to a new country and league though, and Simons has shown at his previous clubs just how good he is, and the potential he has.
Red card moments like this one can be a defining moment in a player's career at a club, and the Dutchman has a chance to use it as a motivation to return after suspension and finally set his Tottenham career alight.
Which Matches Will Simons Miss?
The 22-year-old is out for the whole Christmas period with a three-match ban imposed following the sending off for violent conduct.
Simons will miss the London clashes with Crystal Palace and Brentford over Christmas and New Year, as well as the visit of Sunderland on Janaury 4.
The Netherlands international will be back available to Frank for the visit to Bournemouth on January 7.