The Premier League season kicked-off at the weekend and Tottenham Hotspur were first up, losing to Manchester United 1-0. But there was no DeAndre Yedlin on the team-sheet. Having not yet broken into the first-team, what kind of season lies ahead for the former Seattle Sounders man?
A tough one, that’s for sure. But plenty of opportunities to make a name for himself that side of the Atlantic Ocean. Tottenham are competing in the Premier League, League Cup, FA Cup and the Europa League which means squad rotation is necessary. Factor in the number of departures in the window and the Spurs squad is much smaller than last seasons which further improves Yedlin’s chances of featuring.
In terms of competition for places, the Spurs defensive corps are extremely versatile. Toby Alderweireld can play as both centerback and right-back. New signing Kieran Trippier is a right-back directly competing with Yedlin. Ahead of Yedlin it seems is Eric Dier who started against Manchester United. He can also play as a centerback if needed.
Yedlin is also versatile player which helps his case because if he cannot break into the full-back position then he could play a more central role or move up to the midfield. His attacking prowess is as strong as that of his defensive duties so he wouldn’t be out of his depth in a more forward role.
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He featured in the MLS All-Star Game, featuring multiple times for Spurs during pre-season but there was plenty of talk about him going away on loan. This would make sense, especially if the only other option was to bench-warm all season long.
DeAndre described his first few months at the club as invaluable and made his Spurs debut off the bench against Aston Villa in the Premier League in April. This has been his only appearance to date. Still, it is a long season ahead and Spurs tend to use a few youngsters in and around the first team. Ryan Mason and Harry Kane are notable examples. Eric Dier is also one for the future and DeAndre Yedlin should be on that list too.
DeAndre Yedlin can definitely make a name for himself at White Hart Lane
Yedlin had a strong MLS career despite his young age. Notably being named US Soccer Young Athlete of the Year in December, 2014. However one cannot help but feel the move to the Premier League may have been too soon.
But in terms of clubs, Spurs may be a good option. Manager Mauricio Pochettino is not afraid to use young talent and isn’t afraid to change up the lineups every now and then. They are also a side who are looking for a European place rather than mid-table safety or fighting in relegation battles so Yedlin can definitely make a name for himself at White Hart Lane.
So don’t count against someone like DeAndre Yedlin. He has the talent needed, and has impressive international experience with 23 caps to his name within just two years. Now he just needs some luck and the support from the Spurs coaching staff to give him the shot that he deserves.
Expect him to make a few cameos in the league this year but feature more often in the cup games. That is the usual route for youngsters hoping to nail down a more regular spot. Also if there are any injuries then no doubt DeAndre Yedlin will be drafted in.