Mohammed Kudus Faces Criticism for EPL Performance Against Aston Villa
- Mohammed Kudus has come under criticism from a former Premier League star following his display in Tottenham’s recent defeat
- The Ghana international featured for the full 90 minutes but failed to make a major impact as Spurs suffered a 2-1 home loss to Aston Villa
- A Ghanaian journalist has urged Kudus to sharpen his goal-scoring instincts if Tottenham are to mount a serious Premier League title
Former Premier League forward Troy Deeney has criticised Mohammed Kudus for his actions during Tottenham’s home defeat to Aston Villa in the Premier League.
It was a frustrating return from the international break for Spurs, who dropped more points following Sunday’s 2-1 loss to Villa on October 19.
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Rodrigo Bentancur gave the hosts an early lead, but goals from Morgan Rogers and Emi Buendía completed a second-half comeback for the visitors.
Tottenham boss Thomas Frank was dealt a blow before kick-off, as Cristian Romero picked up a minor abductor injury in the warm-up and was replaced by Kevin Danso.
Spurs clearly missed Romero’s commanding presence at the back, with Frank’s side lacking aggression and defensive solidity, qualities the Argentine is known for.
Fans were also critical of Mathys Tel, who struggled to make an impact as a central striker before being substituted, though he wasn’t the only player underperforming on a disappointing afternoon for Tottenham.
Troy Deeney criticises Tottenham’s attacking play
At times this season, Tottenham have struggled to establish clear attacking patterns and often found it difficult to break down well-organised defences.
The Lilywhites currently sit 13th in the Premier League for expected goals (9.16) but have outperformed that figure by 4.84, according to Understat.
Former Watford striker Troy Deeney pointed out that Spurs’ forwards sometimes make life harder for themselves, choosing to overplay rather than deliver the ball into the box.
He highlighted Mohammed Kudus, who has largely impressed since joining from West Ham in the summer, as a key example of this tendency.
Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day 2, Deeney singled out one moment where the ex-Ajax superstar opted to take on defenders instead of sending in a simple cross.
“Really good from [Mohammed] Kudus, comes short, runs in behind,” Deeney said. “It’s great, but then the old tendencies come back in, because it should be a touch here and then play Tel into the box and obviously he has a one vs one.
“But look again, chops, chops, don’t know when it’s coming in, ends up winning a corner, but it just kills the momentum.”
Ayim urges Mohammed Kudus to add goals to his game
Ghanaian journalist Derrick Ayim has urged Mohammed Kudus to sharpen his goal-scoring instincts if Tottenham Hotspur are to mount a serious Premier League title challenge this season.
Ayim praised Kudus for his impressive form and creativity since joining Spurs but stressed that the Ghanaian must start converting his performances into goals.
“Kudus is playing really well, his movement, his dribbles, and his confidence on the ball are top-class,” Ayim told YEN.com.gh.
“But as a winger in today’s game, you can’t just be entertaining; you have to be decisive. Goals are what separate good wingers from great ones.”
He added that Tottenham’s success this season could depend on Kudus adding end product to his flair.
“Tottenham need his goals. If he starts scoring regularly, they’ll have a real chance of challenging for the Premier League title,” Ayim concluded.
Despite a subdued outing, Kudus remains an integral part of Thomas Frank’s setup and will be determined to respond in Tottenham’s upcoming Champions League clash against AS Monaco.
Given his undeniable talent and influence, supporters will be hoping this underwhelming display was merely a brief setback in what could still be a long and thrilling season ahead.
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Wayne Rooney hails Mohammed Kudus
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported on former England striker Wayne Rooney’s glowing praise for Mohammed Kudus, describing the Ghanaian as one of the Premier League’s most exciting attacking talents.
Rooney lauded Kudus’ flair, work rate, and versatility, noting that he has the “tools to become a world-class player” if he maintains consistency at Tottenham.
Source: YEN.com.gh
