Tottenham star could have seized the opportunity to join Man United, says pundit

A Tottenham star could have taken the chance to join Manchester United if the opportunity had arisen, or at least that’s what a pundit suggested.

Tim Sherwood’s recent comments have turned heads among football fans, especially those keeping an eye on Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

The former Spurs manager suggested that Micky van de Ven could have made a significant impact at Old Trafford had he been given the chance. Instead, United opted for Matthijs de Ligt, a decision that Sherwood believes they may come to regret.

In the aftermath of Tottenham’s commanding 3-0 victory against United, Sherwood pointed out the stark contrast in identity and strategy between the two clubs.

He praised Spurs for their well-defined game plan under manager Ange Postecoglou, highlighting their ability to execute effectively both in and out of possession. In stark contrast, he suggested that United appeared lost on the pitch, lacking a cohesive approach.

Sherwood’s analysis focused heavily on Van de Ven, the 23-year-old centre-back who has rapidly established himself as a key player for Spurs.

Tottenham star could have seized the opportunity to join Man United, says pundit

He described Van de Ven as a "thoroughbred," citing his impressive pace, power, and ability to create opportunities for teammates.

According to Sherwood, these attributes make him a standout player who could have bolstered United's defensive lineup, especially given the influx of Dutch talent at the club under Erik Ten Hag. Sherwood stated:

"Manchester United fans must be looking at it and say: 'Look, our manager has signed a lot of Dutch players. There is probably one who is very, very good and playing for Tottenham'."

"He might have jumped at the chance to go and play for Manchester United, but never got the opportunity because he took De Ligt over the top of him. This boy is a thoroughbred. I know Michael Owen trains racehorses, he would like to have this one in the stable. Look at the pace, power and the ability of that boy."

The pundit expressed that many clubs across the Premier League would be lamenting their failure to secure Van de Ven before he joined Spurs from Wolfsburg.