Former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips has reacted to news involving Tottenham Hotspur defender Ryan Sessegnon, saying the youngster must be doing something special behind the scenes.
The lowdown: New deal talks
This comes following a report from Football Insider claiming that a Spurs source had confirmed the club have ‘opened talks’ with the 21-year-old regarding a new deal.
Signed from Fulham as a hot prospect, Sessegnon spent the 2020/21 campaign on loan at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, where he made 29 appearances across all competitions before returning to north London.
Since arriving back in N17, the England youth international has continued to strive for a regular first-team role but missed some time through injuries, and talks of an extended contract have shocked at least one onlooker…
The latest: Phillips reacts
Speaking to Football Insider, ex-Sunderland striker and current Sky Sports pundit Phillips admitted his ‘surprise’ over Sessegnon’s potential fresh terms.
“He’s clearly done a lot behind the scenes and in training to impress Conte.
“However, have we seen that translate onto the pitch? You would say probably not, so it’s a surprise to see him get a new contract.
“He’s still obviously a very young kid, still developing and learning – and learning from one of the best managers in world football.
“It’s great for him and his development that Tottenham are looking to extend – but I’d like to see him really kick on and cement a regular place now.
“That has to be his priority for next season.”
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The verdict: Spot on
Despite a continued battle with injuries, the 18-cap England Under 21 starlet, who was described as ‘fantastic’ by Jose Mourinho when the Portuguese manager was in situ at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, certainly appears to be a favourite of Antonio Conte’s.
So far this season Sessegnon has made 11 Premier League appearances, providing one assist whilst also missing 24 games through fitness issues – most of the time, if the player is fit, he starts.
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Hopefully, the talented youngster can put those problems behind him and become a regular star for Spurs.
In other news: Tottenham expected to move for ‘phenomenal’ £101m star after Conte request, find out more here.
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