Sheffield loan a make or break moment for Josh Onomah

Once again seen surplus to requirements this season, Josh Onomah needs to make a big splash on loan to return to Tottenham.

Once seen as one of the more highly touted prospects in the Tottenham academy, Onomah has had an up and down past couple of seasons. The midfielder spent the entirety of last term on loan at Aston Villa, where he failed to shine. Despite the fact that Onomah totaled 33 appearances in the league in which he scored four times it appears that his star never truly shined. This is perhaps because he was a sub in most matches, and was not able to leave his mark on the squad, or in the manager’s graces.

Onomah then missed Spurs’ preseason tour of the United States, further pushing him down the pecking order. Luke Amos was able to turn his performances there into a Premier League debut, valuable time Onomah could’ve used.

The English midfielder is no stranger to the Tottenham first team, as he has made 11 appearances in the PL. But just like at his loan club, Onomah has featured as a substitute, late in the match.

However, with the English U20’s Onomah has been able to shine. The midfielder was key member of the side that won the U20 World Cup. Onomah used his strength and ability to dictate play, being likened to Mousa Dembele in the process.

While not exactly a Dembele replacement, Onomah has shown he has much of the same control as the Belgian. Pushed forward for most of his club career, with England the midfielder has played deeper and with more success.

Tottenham’s midfield has been seen recently as needing to be strengthened with the aforementioned Dembele liking departing soon. Players like Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks can play in that position, but do not offer the same style of play. If Onomah can develop his skills this season, that spot may just open up for him.

This loan to Sheffield Wednesday offers Onomah another great chance to show his skill and ability. Spurs can always use another talented body in midfield, especially one who can play a wide range of options.

And with Tottenham reluctant to splash large fees to acquire squad depth, it may be better if someone like Onomah can make that spot their own.