‘It’s unbelievable’: Gary Neville simply can’t believe what £39m Tottenham player did vs Leicester
Despite Tottenham Hotspur ultimately falling to Jamie Vardy’s clinical finishing in their Premier League clash, Ange Postecoglou’s team showcased a strong performance against Leicester City. Tottenham displayed moments of dominance, particularly in the first half, but were left to rue missed opportunities as they failed to secure all three points at the King Power Stadium.
The match was a frustrating one for Postecoglou, who would have undoubtedly expected more from his side given their control during the opening stages. Tottenham’s ability to dictate play in the first half showed promise, yet they couldn’t capitalize on their superiority, leaving Postecoglou to reflect on what might have been.
A highlight for Spurs was the impressive form of James Maddison, who returned to his former club with a point to prove. Maddison, who joined Tottenham during the summer, seemed determined to make a mark, particularly after a challenging second half to the previous season. His performance was a testament to the work done during pre-season, where Postecoglou focused on improving Maddison’s fitness rather than his confidence. The manager had previously stated that Maddison’s confidence was never in doubt, but his physical condition needed addressing. The match against Leicester suggested that those efforts are paying off, with Maddison looking sharp and eager to reclaim a spot in the England squad, especially as the FA searches for a long-term successor to Gareth Southgate.
One of the key moments of the match, however, involved Maddison’s involvement in a move that left Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville astonished. Neville, covering the 1-1 draw, was particularly taken aback by Pedro Porro’s goal, which came from a clever assist by Maddison.
During the half-time analysis, Neville discussed the unusual positioning of Tottenham’s full-backs, especially Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie, which had caught his eye last season. Porro, who has been known for his adventurous positioning, found himself in an advanced role once again, and it paid off with a well-taken goal. Neville remarked on Porro’s boldness to take up such an aggressive position and praised his composed finish. “It’s remarkable that a right-back finds himself in that spot and executes the finish so well,” Neville noted, emphasizing the risk involved and the tactical awareness Porro displayed.
For both Maddison and Porro, this season represents an opportunity to build on their previous performances and cement their places in the Tottenham lineup. Pedro Porro, in particular, will be looking to make a significant impact after what felt like his first proper season in North London. The Spanish right-back, who joined Spurs permanently for £39 million in the summer of 2023 following a loan spell with an obligation to buy, struggled to find his footing under former manager Antonio Conte. The Italian’s system didn’t always seem to play to Porro’s strengths, leaving the full-back with limited opportunities to showcase his true potential.
Now, under Postecoglou’s guidance, Porro appears to have found a role that suits his attacking instincts, and if his performance against Leicester is any indication, Tottenham fans can expect more of the same as the season progresses. Maddison, too, will be eager to continue his resurgence and prove himself as a key player for both club and country.
