End of the line for enigmatic Tottenham Hotspur right back
By Gary Pearson
Serge Aurier’s last two matches summed up perfectly his overall contribution to Tottenham Hotspur since arriving from PSG in 2017.
Aurier enjoyed a sterling performance against Sheffield United, assisting on two of Gareth Bale’s three goals. The Ivorian’s first assist was out of the top drawer, a special close-range lobbed through ball to Bale, who poked home with the outside of his boot.
That was the best of Aurier, who, when he’s in top form, is a dynamic force down the right wing. He has the ability to swing in a pinpoint cross and isn’t afraid to deploy bone crunching tackles. Unfortunately we see that side of Aurier less than a lunar eclipse.
Instead we’ve become accustomed to his enigmatic, inconsistent, maddening performances, showcased once again against Leeds on the weekend. He was easily Tottenham’s worst player. And that’s saying a lot when taking into consideration how poorly Spurs’ defence played in the 3-1 loss.
Hapless, unreliable, unaware of his surroundings and, similar to humans with lunar eclipses, unable to get anywhere close to Jack Harrison, Aurier showed all of his worst qualities in a single match.
Aurier is his own worst enemy. As inconsistent as he is enigmatic, Aurier no longer has a place in Tottenham’s first team.
Spurs require a stabilizing, reliable force at right back, especially if the club decides to extend Bale’s loan. The Welshman isn’t exactly renowned for his defensive prowess. A defensive specialist, a sound beacon of strength, is required to cover for the enterprising Welshman.
Foot Mercato reports that Real Madrid are interested in bringing Aurier to the Spanish capital. Thank the heavens someone is keen to take him off Tottenham’s hands.
He is the type of perplexing enigma that accelerates hair loss. I can’t count on two hands the amount of needless, inexplicable penalties he has conceded in almost four years at Spurs. Eric Dier and Aurier are neck and neck for the unenviable title of most harebrained gaffs.
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At least the summer looks promising in some respects, as seeing Aurier pack his bags and depart Tottenham should bring a smile to countless supporters.