'He’s a work in progress'- Peter Crouch calls for patience as Tottenham star with ‘undeniable talent’ strives to impress

To his credit, Frank quickly recognised the issue and handed Simons a start in his preferred No. 10 role during the clash against Leeds United. The change immediately paid off. The young midfielder was one of Tottenham’s most effective players on the pitch before being substituted midway through the second half. Operating centrally, Simons found pockets of space between the lines, linked up fluidly with the attackers, and caused constant problems for the Leeds defence.

Tottenham will slowly see the best of Xavi Simons this season

In Spurs’ 2-1 win at Elland Road, Simons looked far more at home pulling the strings behind the forwards. He was heavily involved in Tottenham’s build-up play — something that had been missing from his performances when he was stationed out wide. The display underlined just how much more influential he can be when allowed to play in his natural creative role.

However, Peter Crouch pointed out an instance that showed the downside of the youngster’s decision-making skills in the final third of the pitch. Speaking on TNT Sports (via TBR Football), Crouch said,

“I think I’d say he’s a work in progress, an undeniable talent. I love watching him play. He does things no one else on the field can do, but there were a couple of incidents. Obviously, the rabona when Romero has gone flying forward, I don’t think if they had scored, he might have had a few words in the dressing room about that.”

Crouch’s comment referred to a specific moment in the game when Cristian Romero intercepted a loose pass and sparked a quick counterattack, linking up neatly with Simons. The Dutchman had the opportunity to drive forward and return the ball to Romero, who was unmarked and making a surging run into the box. Instead, Simons attempted an audacious rabona pass, which failed to come off and ended the attack prematurely.

The incident was a reminder that while Simons possesses immense flair and creativity, he is still refining his decision-making in the final third of the pitch. At just 22, the attacker remains a work in progress. Despite that, there is no denying that Tottenham have a special talent on their hands. With regular game time in his preferred role, the Dutchman has every chance of evolving into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic playmakers.