In a footballing world which is becoming increasingly dominated by extortionate transfer fees and mind-boggling wages, the need to remain commercially successful has never been more paramount for clubs at the highest reaches of the game.
Who is peddling the astronomical increase in the value of the football economy? Well, technology and the rising cost of TV rights have undoubtedly been kwy drivers behind the financial changes in recent years, and that in turn has increased the importance of how the supporters engage with the club.
Increasing ticket prices have enabled clubs to satisfy wage demands and fork out for new players, but the sale of club merchandise is also another crucial source of income.
Premier League clubs are firmly aware of this and plenty of them, particularly those competing for honours at the summit of the top-flight, allow that train of thought to influence their transfer policy.
Finding a balance between quality football players and commercial value is an equilibrium which recruitment teams are constantly looking to strike, and Tottenham’s decision to sign Heung-min Son in 2015 was a quintessential example of that.
The form Son showcased at Leverkusen naturally drew Tottenham’s attention, but his heroic status in South Korea offered Daniel Levy an opportunity to enhance the club’s popularity in Asia.
Naturally, Son’s array of attacking talents evoked plenty of excitement amongst the supporters, with his dynamic approach and ambidextrous quality providing positive indicators for how his career would unfold in north London.
Here’s what the fans had to say:
@SpursOfficial unbelievable.
— Rob. (@Robbiecoys10) August 28, 2015
@WhiteHartKane yes he is certainly the kind of player we need, needed to spend decent money to buy a player who can change the game
— Keeley (@ashworth_keeley) August 28, 2015
@ashworth_keeley I think he will. Very versatile player, fast and good with both feet! Decent finisher as well I've heard
— Otto (@WhiteHartKane) August 28, 2015
Get in my Son! @SpursOfficial #HereComesTheSon #COYS
— Leon Watson (@LeonWatson) August 28, 2015
@SpursOfficial Get In My Son.
Welcome to The Lane
— Mikow (@Mikow_) August 28, 2015
@SpursOfficial @jacknugent94 Big fan of this guy. Great signing.
— ben bennett (@ben__bennett) August 28, 2015
@ben__bennett @SpursOfficial mint player mate!
— Jack (@jacknugent94) August 28, 2015
https://twitter.com/JackClarkee/status/637191401814519808
The enthusiasm which greeted Son’s arrival has undoubtedly been justified on the field of play, where his performances have consistently served to terrorise Premier League defenders and wow Tottenham supporters.
Levy’s decision to boost the club’s international reputation by signing one of Asian football’s biggest superstars has clearly paid dividends so far, and his latest achievement at the Asia Games is only likely to boost Tottenham’s popularity on the continent.
Tottenham fans – thoughts? Let us know below!
