Tottenham’s 5 most indispensable internationals
As the penultimate dress rehearsal before the World Cup commences, let’s take a look at five Tottenham players invaluable to their countries chances at Russia this summer.
- Jan Vertonghen – Belgium
Jan has been an omnipresent figure for the Red Devils ever since his debut over a decade ago. At 30 years of age, he is reaping the rewards of such experience, expertly marshalling the Tottenham backline week in week out.
Vertonghen recently transcended past Jan Ceulemans to take the crown of Belgium’s most capped international, and all his esteem and savvy will be called upon to help unite a team of individual brilliance which has so far failed to deliver on the big stage.
- Hugo Lloris – France
Hugo has captained Les Bleus a record 70 times and will exert a considerable influence on a young but exceptionally talented French side. France will fancy their chances at cruising through their group, ultimately aiming to go one better than they managed at the Euros.
- Harry Kane – England
When Harry rolled his ankle against Bournemouth, a nation held its breath. A scan later revealed the talismanic forward would be back playing in a little over a month. And in hindsight, the layoff may do him no harm in preparation to lead the line in Russia.
In a squad with few nailed on starters, Kane’s name must be the first on Gareth Southgate’s team sheet. Harry proved his weight to his country scoring five goals in the second half of the qualifying campaign, including last-gasp strikes against Scotland and Slovenia. And should England mount any challenge for glory this summer, Harry will more than likely be the protagonist.
- Son Heung-min – South Korea
Son epitomises the industrious style of the Korean side, but the two times Asian player of the year boasts an extra sprinkle of bedazzlement.
Similar to his role at Spurs, Son operates on the left of an attacking quartet for Korea. But without Kane and co. to call upon, the onus will firmly be on Sonny if Korea hopes to escape from a tricky group containing Germany, Mexico, and the Swedes.
- Christian Eriksen – Denmark
Although still only 26, Eriksen has a wealth of international experience. The Dane was the youngest player at the 2010 competition at just 18 years of age and is currently enjoying his best run of form wearing the crimson jersey.
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Tottenham’s playmaker could find space on a busy Japanese commuter train during rush hour, but his international role stretches much further than just acting as creator. Eriksen netted eight times during the group’s stage of the qualifiers and added another three in Dublin to seal Denmark’s place at the finals.