Thomas Frank has given his thoughts on Rodrigo Bentancur following the midfielder’s new contract, and while he praised his qualities, the Tottenham boss believes there are still key areas where the Uruguayan can raise his game.
Tottenham Hotspur recently confirmed that Rodrigo Bentancur has signed a new long-term deal at the club, securing his future in North London after months of uncertainty.
The midfielder had been at risk of leaving on a free transfer next summer, but he is now tied down for the foreseeable future and expected to remain a central figure in Thomas Frank’s side.
Frank himself has already stated that extending Bentancur’s contract reflects the direction of the club and shows that the midfielder, along with others, has bought into the long-term project Spurs are building.
Thomas Frank on what Rodrigo Bentancur must improve at Tottenham
While the Dane is pleased to have secured Bentancur’s long-term future, Thomas Frank did not hold back when asked what areas the midfielder still needs to develop.
Bentancur, at his best, is a top-class midfielder, and Tottenham fans will remember just how influential he was during Antonio Conte’s time in charge, before that long-term ACL injury stalled his progress.
Since then, the Uruguayan has been back on the pitch regularly for Spurs, and while he has played to a solid standard, he has yet to consistently reach the heights of his pre-injury form.
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Speaking to football.london, Frank explained: “I think one thing I have seen, I am very happy with him as a player and as a character. I think when he plays at his best level, he is a top-level as a midfielder here in the Premier League and I probably need to see a little bit more consistency there.
“I also want him to and I told him myself, I want him to a little bit more dictate the game and get on the ball when it is tough because he is so good on the ball. He is so composed and so good to get the ball in tight areas and get out of situations.
“That I would like to see a little bit more, so I think that is the first bit and he can easily add goals to the game, but the more we can control the middle of the pitch with him, the better.”
Spurs fans still waiting for more from Bentancur
Bentancur’s primary role at Tottenham has never been about scoring goals, as he is most often deployed in the pivot role, usually alongside Joao Palhinha, where his responsibilities are more about controlling possession and supporting defensively.
His job is to keep the team ticking and maintain balance, but his performances have not always carried the level of consistency supporters would hope for, especially across long stretches of the season.