Xavi Simons’ behaviour shows the root cause of potential relegation for Tottenham Hotspur this season.
The Netherlands international was supposed to be the signing that took the Lilywhites to the next level under Thomas Frank.
He became the record signing at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as the usual penny pinching antics were forgotten with a view to building on the Europa League win.
Things just haven’t worked out, and the attacking midfielder has been a disappointment alongside the rest of his Spurs teammates.
Simons did score as Tottenham drew 2-2 versus Brighton, but unfortunately summed up everything wrong in N17 with his on-field behaviour.
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Xavi Simons emotion on show vs Brighton
There were high hopes for the summer signing after proving just how good he can be over the years at RB Leipzig.
His talents haven’t fully translated from the Bundesliga to the Premier League, as he has struggled to secure a starting XI spot in North London.
Roberto De Zerbi handed him a chance against Brighton and looked to have been vindicated when the Dutchman curled home a stunner.
That was just one of four shots on the day, as he also created two chances for his teammates in the hope of securing victory in N17.
He celebrated by taking his shirt off, jumping into the stands and generally letting joy and relief take over his entire body.
That was dashed in the 95th minute when Georginio Rutter smashed home an equaliser for Brighton, leaving the Dutchman on the verge of tears before pulling his shirt over his head.
Simons had some highs against Brighton, but that is just evidence of an emotion problem at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium that is dragging them down.
Roberto De Zerbi and Simons guilty of letting emotion hamper them at Tottenham
It feels as if the highs are really high and the lows are really low for Tottenham right now, and that just isn’t healthy.
Jumping into the crowd in joy can’t be followed by true sadness within 20 minutes, regardless of what goes on.
Simons was dead on his feet by the time Rutter scored after his 51 touches, four defensive actions, and six duel wins in North London.
That can’t be blamed for his emotion, as his manager was actually booked for getting far too invested in proceedings as he charged down the touchline.
De Zerbi was up and down and constantly showcasing his passion, but was left frustrated by the late equaliser.
He and Simons sum up the problems at Tottenham right now as they continue to let emotion dictate their performances on the pitch.
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