Micky van de Ven was impressed with the Tottenham Hotspur star’s performance in the 2-0 win over Brentford at the weekend.
Tottenham claim first Premier League win since late October
Pressure has been mounting on Thomas Frank in recent weeks, with Tottenham even rumored to be considering replacing him with Barcelona manager Xavi, but the Dane may have bought himself more time with the win over Brentford.
Spurs won 2-0 against the Bees, their first win in the Premier League since beating Everton 3-0 at the end of October. Richarlison opened the scoring after 26 minutes, scoring his seventh goal in all competitions this season.
Xavi Simons was the creator and the Dutchman scored his first goal since joining north London just before half-time, sealing all three points for Frank’s side in the process.
Symonds has come under heavy criticism for his slow start to life at Tottenham, particularly after the defeat against Fulham that saw Jamie O’Hara sent off, but it was clear he had the full support of team-mate Van de Ven, who singled out the attacking midfielder highly after Brentford.
“Obviously he didn’t start in the last game, but I know that Xavi has the qualities to be able to create something for us.
“He can be really important for us, we know that. Of course it’s more difficult for you guys to understand that, but I think he showed that himself as well.”
“He gave an unbelievable performance and was a really important part of the team.
“He continued to train hard and train over and over again every day to become a better player.
“Of course, in those moments when he’s a little down because he didn’t start, I’ll be there for him and talk to him.
“I said, ‘Xavi, believe me, the time will come, don’t worry,’ and obviously I saw the quality in him.”
Symonds needs to build on his Brentford performances
Frank will no doubt be pleased that the Dutch international appears to be finding his form again, scoring a goal and an assist against Keith Andrews’ side and earning a 9.5 Sofascore match rating.
Having finally shown what he is capable of, the 22-year-old will need to build on his performance by starting against Slavia Prague on Tuesday, when Spurs host the Czech side in their sixth Champions League game.
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Frank’s side have at times looked short on ideas this season, but Richarlison’s stunning goal against Arsenal in November was enough to keep them from suffering another heavy defeat.
As such, Simmons will need to step up and Tottenham will be hoping the former RB Leipzig man starts to put up similar attacking numbers to the one he recorded during his time at the German club, where he recorded 22 goals and 24 assists in 78 games.
