Benjamin Stambouli’s arrival was seen as lukewarm, another midfielder in an already crowded squad who would fit in as a bit time player, has emerged as a very solid and technically astute player this season.
After his substitute appearance in December’s 2-1 away defeat of Swansea City, the hitherto cup-game contributor began to see more involvement in the league.
It was initially as cover for the then preeminent starting central midfield pair of Nabil Bentaleb and Mason. Stambouli did solid work during this Christmas period, well aware Bentaleb’s impending international duty at the African Cup of Nations would afford him more opportunities in the New Year.
That has proved the case—Stambouli has featured in seven of Spurs’ nine matches in 2015. Crucially for his prospects, there has been proof of progression even in that short time-span. Whereas before he would rush into challenges, he’s now taken a more pragmatic approach.
Already since then, the visible head-rush which occurred at times in his tackling has slowed. In four starts—three wins and a draw (albeit one which sealed Spurs’ place in the Capital One Cup final)—he has not been booked.
A glimpse of the ball at an opponent’s feet still stirs an urge in Stambouli to rob him, and the cleverer of those in possession anticipate it. Such moments occurred last Wednesday against Sheffield United and will continue to do so. But they were also augmented by choices he made to stand his ground instead, trapping others when their intentions became apparent.
The statistics tallied on WhoScored.com are not entirely the best measure given the discrepancy in game time between Spurs midfielders. Nonetheless, the summer signing’s status as the position’s most successful tackler and interceptor are testament to his value as a key defensive presence. One who has proved more active than the willing but too reactive Etienne Capoue, the squad’s other more natural holding midfield player.
Stambouli’s individual development is obviously important to his chances of becoming a regular, but so too is how he performs in conjunction with his team-mates. His performance against Sheffield United suggests his existing aptitude here will stand him in good stead.
Given the calibre of opposition Tottenham face in the coming weeks, Stambouli is likely going get the chance to underline his worth to Pochettino. Certainly for the club’s supporters, the north London derby this Saturday is as good a place as any to produce it.
