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Tottenham urged not to hand out new contract to resurgent ace; jury still out
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images

Tottenham Hotspur urged not to hand Richarlison a new contract just yet

Tottenham forward Richarlison has yet to replicate the form he consistently displayed during his time at Everton before making the switch to N17. The Brazil international has experienced occasional purple patches since joining the Lilywhites, but these have rarely translated into sustained performances.

Last season, the 28-year-old also fell down the pecking order under Ange Postecoglou after struggling to make a regular impact for the North London club. The prolific striker’s dismal form, coupled with his tendency to go missing during games, put his Spurs future under the spotlight throughout the summer. He was heavily linked with a move away from the club, with several teams vying hard for his signature.

However, Richarlison decided to stay put and give himself one last chance to prove his worth at Tottenham. So far, it is fair to say that the Brazilian has seized his second opportunity at N17 with both hands under Thomas Frank this season. The 28-year-old has already registered two goals and an assist in the opening four games of the Premier League season, showcasing sheer determination and grit along the way.

Jury is still out on Richarlison’s future at Tottenham

Many fans believed Richarlison’s career at Tottenham was over after failing to make an impact for the Lilywhites last season. However, Thomas Frank handed the Brazilian forward a lifeline at Hotspur Way, backing him to lead the team at the start of the season. And it is fair to say that the 28-year-old has managed to repay Frank’s trust by producing match-winning performances.

But Bryan King is still remaining sceptical of the ex-Everton star despite his strong start to the season. Speaking to Tottenham News, King said,

“I don’t think he (Richarlison) has done enough (for a new contract). If he does well this season, then I’d maybe discuss a new contract, but at the moment, I certainly wouldn’t be interested.”

The ex-scout added,

“He’s still got to prove for me, and I would imagine Frank as well, that he’s going to get at least 25 games under his belt, and also score goals.”

Ian Darke believes Richarlison still has a lot of work to do if he wants to earn a new contract at Tottenham. The ex-scout suggests that the Brazilian needs to continue working hard and prove his worth at N17 on a consistent basis. Darke wants the prolific forward to stay injury-free and score goals if he wants to extend his stay at Hotspur Way.

The real challenge for Richarlison is to maintain his spot in the starting eleven under Thomas Frank. With Spurs forwards Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani nearing full fitness, the ex-Everton star will need to perform week in week out to not get replaced by the duo. Maintaining his fitness levels and scoring crucial goals will be a true test of Richarlison’s resilience in the coming weeks.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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