Why Crystal Palace should make a move for Tottenham’s Harry Winks
After making a positive start to their season under Roy Hodgson, Crystal Palace are now winless in their last 6 games. The Eagles are facing a tough run of fixtures and have lost 3 of their last 4 games, only managing a draw against Arsenal in the league.
The Eagles have once again relied too much on Wilfried Zaha to produce the goods and that seems to be taking a toll on the team this season, with opposition sides often targeting the Ivorian and keeping him quiet.
Palace have also lacked a quality midfielder capable of swiftly moving the ball and making things happen. Luka Milivojevic has failed to make an impact like he did last season and new signing Cheikhou Kouyate is more of a defensive asset.
Roy Hodgson should definitely take a look at Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Harry Winks. The 22-year-old central midfielder has looked very bright for the Lilywhites this season. He has made just 4 starts and 5 substitute appearances in the league but has always managed to make a difference whenever given the opportunity.
Winks has also played 2 Champions League games and both of Tottenham’s League Cup fixtures. With Mousa Dembele, Eric Dier and Victor Wanyama all suffering injuries, the youngster stepped up and effortlessly did his job in the middle of the park.
He is quick on the ball and is capable of driving at defenders through the middle. Winks is also very good when it comes to distributing the ball in the midfield. He has averaged a pass success rate of 88.7% in the league so far while also boasting 89% in the Champions League. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
Palace lack a quick mover of the ball, someone with the energy to play passes into the final third. Though Winks is regarded as a defensive midfielder, he is more than capable of offering a great attacking output.
Alongside Cheikhou Kouyate, the midfielder will have all the freedom to pick his passes and choose his runs. Kouyate would be able to hold his own when it comes to defending and this should see Winks receive ample time on the ball. His ability to play incisive passes will also give the attackers a lot more chances going forward.
Winks also tends to work hard defensively. He has managed a 100% tackle success rate in the league so far, making a total of 30 recoveries. He is more than willing to do the dirty work in the middle of the park. (Stats courtesy – Premier League)
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Crystal Palace should definitely consider making a move for Harry Winks in January. The 22-year-old is a very bright talent and though Spurs may be hesitant to part ways, Roy Hodgson should try and strike a loan deal at the least. The Eagles are in dire need of some energy in the middle of the park.
(PS: This article was written before Tottenham’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace earlier in the day)