TF90M questions whether Tom Huddlestone will ever be able to earn his Spurs or is a summer exit inevitable?
Having been quickly likened to Spurs legend Glenn Hoddle, it was never going to be easy for Tom Huddlestone to live up to the speculation.
Hoddle, a tireless runner who possessed a strong work ethic combined with sublime control, unrivalled vision and incredible shooting prowess.
Huddlestone, a strong, large figure, versatile and capable of ferocious shots and superb passes.
Whilst the similarities may be clear to some, although only 22 years old, Huddlestone lacks the flair and finished attributes that Hoddle held at a similar age.
Capable of breathtaking moments, Hoddle, graced the White Hart Lane pitch in contrast to Huddlestone, whose almost lacksidasical approach to the game, often annoys the Spurs faithful.
The Nottingham born midfielder joined the North London side after impressing the Premiership scouts playing for Derby County. With a reported price tag of £3 million, Huddlestone was one of numerous young English talents the Spurs board elected to purchase. Blossoming under former manager Martin Jol, Huddlestone netted his first Spurs league goal in 2006, during the season in which he first established himself as one of the most promising young English talents. The central midfielder, not only proved himself in his favoured position, but also demonstrated his capabilities in other areas of the pitch. Not content with the Hoddle comparison, Jol declared Huddlestone’s game to be similar to the German great Franz Beckenbauer.
Despite being a regular face in the England U21 squad Huddlestone has failed to progress substantially since Jol’s departure. A figure of fun for many away fans, Juande Ramos decided Huddlestone could do with shedding some pounds, however his large appearance is still apparent. Now a bit-part player under Redknapp, the arrival of Wilson Palacios has dropped Huddlestone down the pecking order even further.
His contract may extend until 2013, however with transfer rumours rife, Huddlestone’s Spurs’ days could be numbered.
The latest team to be linked to the midfielder is Newcastle, with the Toon’s assistant manager, and former Spurs man, Chris Hughton being a firm fan of Huddlestone. Hughton apparently recommended the 22-year-old to manager Joe Kinnear, currently away from the club as he recovers from heart surgery, as a potential solution to the club's midfield shortages and a summer swoop could be on the cards.
With competition from Everton, Fulham and Jol’s new team SV Hamburg, Newcastle may have to fight for their man, although it appears Spurs may be prepared for his departure.
If Huddlestone is now redundant at the Lane, although he may have not immediately lived up to the legend of Hoddle, he still has time to develop as a player. Whilst pace is obviously lacking, his vision, passing ability and versatility could yet mould him into a great footballer.
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