Paul Robinson believes Son Heung-min will have a major part to play when the season resumes next month.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider reporter Dylan Childs, the former Tottenham goalkeeper suggested Son’s leadership qualities will be a decisive factor on and off the pitch for the rest of the campaign to come.
Earlier this week, the 27-year-old returned to training after completing his mandatory military service in his home country South Korea (Daily Mail).
The South Korean international finished at the top of his class and linked up with his teammates for the first time since the nationwide lockdown was introduced as the Premier League initiated phase one of ‘Project Restart.’
[freshpress-quiz id=”292623″]
Players are allowed to train together in small groups in non-contact activities adhering to social distancing guidelines set out by the government (Evening Standard).
Sharing his thoughts on the winger’s return to London, Robinson said “it is one of the only positives to come out of this awful situation that we are all in if you are a Spurs fan.
“His importance to the team has become very apparent in the last two seasons. No matter where he plays, he is a key figure. He has a big influence on the dressing room as well so he is important to Spurs both on and off the field.”
He concluded “the one bright thing to come out of this lockdown is that Son had the ability to complete his shortened military service.”
Currently, Jose Mourinho’s side sit eighth in the Premier League, two points behind Wolverhampton Wanderers, four points away from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United, and one point clear of bitter rivals Arsenal.
Son is the second-highest goalscorer for Spurs this season, one goal shy of star striker Harry Kane, although he has created more assists than the club captain so far (BBC).
At present, he has scored 9 goals and provided 7 assists in the English top flight, taking 3 shots per game, averaging 1.4 key passes, and making 2.3 dribbles on average (via WhoScored).
Mourinho was initially concerned he could be without Son for the remainder of the season as he fractured his arm after scoring a brace against Aston Villa back in February. However, he has made a swift recovery, and the fact he has completed his national service quota means he will have more time to practice before the league restarts.
If the forward can continue this fine form, his performances on the pitch could give the team the boost they need to mount a solid challenge for European football.
Tottenham fans, do you think Son Heung-min’s return will boost the Lilywhites? Let us know down below!
