The World Cup usually throws a few surprises and 2018 edition was perhaps the biggest in terms of underdogs doing well. While one half of the draw saw the likes of Brazil, Belgium and France battle it out, the other half of the draw saw England and Croatia make it to the semis ahead of much-fancied teams like Germany and Spain.
France’s second World Cup win wasn’t an aberration. They made it to the Euro 2016 final as well and have a team that can even go on to retain the World Cup in Qatar, such is the talent in that squad. Despite boasting quite a few big names though, one of the players who took many fans by surprise is Benjamin Pavard.
The Stuttgart defender predominantly played as a centre-half for the Bundesliga side but was deployed as a right-back by Didier Deschamps. Despite the change in position, he put in some consistent performances.
Tottenham linked with Benjamin Pavard
Now, Spurs had Kieran Trippier representing them in the World Cup and boy was he good. Trippier made the headlines for his marauding displays on the right flank and was the designated set-piece taker for the three lions.
Despite Trippier’s consistent performances, Spurs have been linked with a move for Pavard. Pochettino, however, might not use him as a right-back like Deschamps did at the World Cup.
Having put in good performances in the Bundesliga as a centre-half, Pavard is seen as a potential replacement for Toby Alderweireld who is unsettled at the club as per reports.
Alderweireld’s contract will be up next summer which means Spurs will have to either sell him in the on-going transfer window or risk losing him for free if he plays out the rest of his contract.
A good alternative for Alderweireld
Pavard showed he can mix caution with aggression when he was deployed as a right-back for France. After playing within himself initially, he scored a scorcher against Argentina and from then on, he was pretty active on the right flank.
Because he has good pace and the height, he can be a good addition to the Premier League. What he lacks in terms of physique, he makes up in his good reading of the game.
Spurs will have a pretty young defence in Sanchez and Pavard but the experience will be there as Jan Vertonghen won’t be leaving anytime soon. That’s a pretty good defence to have for the long-term.