Lilywhite Rose: Tottenham Loanee May Be Recalled in January Following Recent Changes
Ashley Phillips Impresses on Loan at Stoke City for Tottenham
After a slow start to the season, the central defender has become a key player for Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium and is even being tipped for inclusion in the Championship Team of the Season.
Phillips’ impressive form has caught the attention of Tottenham Hotspur, who, at one point, considered recalling the 19-year-old to address their injury crisis [via The Standard, 12 December].
However, John Wenham, owner of Lilywhite Rose, opposed this idea and urged Spurs to secure another centre-back by 1 January instead.
Following Stoke City’s announcement on 27 December that they had parted ways with Head Coach Narcís Pèlach, Wenham speculated, in an exclusive interview with Tottenham News, that Phillips might return to Tottenham in January.
“It’s an interesting situation with Phillips,” Wenham remarked. “Stoke have changed managers, and I’ll be curious to see if Phillips continues to feature under the new boss.
If he’s not part of the plans, Tottenham may reevaluate and consider recalling him.
Some have already suggested he should return due to the injury crisis, and the managerial change could make that more likely.”
Tottenham to Recall Ashley Phillips in January?
Spurs are grappling with a severe defensive injury crisis, which has led to some difficult selection decisions, criticized as “pathetic” by fans.
Ange Postecoglou might, therefore, be open to recalling Phillips in January.
However, if the England youth international remains a regular starter at Stoke under the new manager, it would be better for his long-term development to continue playing regularly in the Championship rather than returning to North London as a temporary solution until Cristian Romero or Micky van de Ven recover.
Fortunately for Spurs, Stoke City has six matches scheduled over the next three and a half weeks.
If Stoke appoints a new manager soon, Tottenham will have ample opportunities to assess whether Phillips is part of his plans.
This will enable Spurs to make an informed decision before February, ensuring the best outcome for both the player and the club.
