Xavi Simons is expected to create fond memories for Tottenham fans throughout his tenure in North London.
Simons arrived at Tottenham in the final days of the summer as a marquee signing. After Arsenal swooped in ahead of Spurs for Eberechi Eze in the final moments of his transfer, the Dutchman’s signing appeared well worth the heartbreak.
Spurs supporters were able to catch a glimpse of Simons when he played for the Netherlands over the international break. However, most will be itching to see him take to the pitch in a Lilywhite shirt.
With the wait almost over, it seems that his debut could be worth the wait.
Matt Wells tells Xavi Simons to be ‘creative’ in training
Tottenham fans will be expecting to see fireworks if Simons plays in Spurs’ upcoming game against West Ham in the Premier League.
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The attacking midfielder was known for his creative flair while at RB Leipzig. In two seasons at the German club, he notched 23 assists in all competitions.
This is something that most will be hoping he shows in abundance while in North London, and it seems that his creativity is something that will be embraced by Thomas Frank.
In a training video posted by Hotspur Reports via X on Wednesday, 10 September, Frank’s assistant coach Matt Wells can be seen instructing Simons throughout the action.
During the clip, Wells makes it clear that he expects Simons to be creative. He said: “Go create, do whatever you want.”
With Simons seemingly given free rein to show off the creative side of his game, Tottenham fans could grow to love his performances should will follow.
Xavi Simons to have Bryan Mbeumo role at Totenham
Simons plays best when operating as a number 10 who is given licence to drift towards the left wing.
From what has been seen in training clips, it seems that Frank is content to give the Dutchman a free role in midfield. He did something similar with Bryan Mbeumo at Brentford.
Indeed, while Mbeumo often started from the right wing, he was given freedom to cut inside. There were also games where he’d start as a second striker or centre-forward but would frequently occupy the right channel.
While Mbeumo outperformed Simons on the goalscoring front last season, there were similarities in their creative output. Both recorded the same number of assists. However, the Dutchman performed 0.01 per 90 more in expected assists.
Meanwhile, there was a 0.29 per 90 difference in their chances created. This makes sense considering they’re different profiles of players, but Mbeumo’s creative stats are high because of the role he was given under Frank.
As such, Spurs supporters may need to watch a clip or two of the right winger under the Dane for an understanding of how Simons could perform for Spurs.