‘Bellingham’ – Leeds United pundit tells Spurs fans what to expect from Archie Gray – The Spurs Web

Archie Gray enjoyed a superb season last time out

Gray only broke into Leeds’ starting line-up at the start of last season, but in less than 12 months he has already established a reputation as one of the best young talents in the English game.

Although a professional midfielder, the 18-year-old played quite often at right-back for Leeds last season, with the youngster able to be used as Pedro Porro’s understudy by Ange Postecoglou in N17.

England boss Gareth Southgate even spoke highly of the Leeds Academy graduate, admitting that the Three Lions have been keeping a close eye on the youngster (The Mirror).

Spurs fans thus have plenty of reason to be excited about Gray’s arrival, and Cross believes the Lilywhites have got their hands on a potentially generational talent.

What can Spurs expect from Archie Gray?

When asked what makes Tottenham’s newest addition so special, he told Football.London: “It’s a very difficult question to answer. The bottom line is that for every attribute you describe, it’s set in the context of him still being only 18 years old. It’s remarkable how composed and intelligent he is with so little senior experience in the game.

“It’s not flawless, of course. There were games where he struggled, but they were rare and he often played in his weaker right-back position against tricky interiors following five games in 20 or 25 days.

Cross revealed that despite his body, Gray is someone who enjoys a physical battle and doesn’t shy away from a challenge.

He continued: “And he’s a fighter. He does not shy away from challenges. He is not afraid of anyone, despite his tender years and slender body. When a boot needs to be put on, he will put it on. His approach control with opponents has always attracted attention. He rarely gave the ball away and found his way out of tight spots.

“There are obvious things he can do, like passing long and short. The goals and assists haven’t flowed in, but he’s spent most of the year at right back.”

Asked if Gray was ready for the Premier League, the reporter said: “Yes. Many Spurs fans will have already seen a compilation of highlights from his FA Cup appearance at Chelsea last season. In one match, playing in midfield, he controlled the game despite being matched up against Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.”

Asked what Spurs can expect from the 18-year-old over the next few years, Cross said: “Well, I’ve noticed on the Gold and Guest podcast there’s a reluctance to mention Jude Bellingham too often, but that’s the kind of of comparison. I did at Elland Road.

“Nobody can be sure it will be as good as Bellingham, but that’s the kind of company we think it will eventually keep.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Almost everyone working on the game seems convinced that Gray is destined for big things in the future.

However, the fact that he is only 18 means it would be unfair to expect big things from him straight away, and the midfielder could face a steep learning curve over the next year or two at Spurs.

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