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"He's the most underrated player in the PL"...praise for the Tottenham MF
James Ward-Prowse has praised Rodrigo Bentancur.
"Ward-Prowse calls Bentancur one of the most underrated midfielders in the Premier League," TBR Football reported on Thursday.
Born in 1997, the 26-year-old midfielder moved to Tottenham Hotspur in the 2022-23 season. While there were some concerns that the club was signing a bench player who hadn't fully established himself at Juventus the previous season, the €19 million transfer fee was a bargain for Spurs.
Contrary to expectations, he quickly adapted to the Premier League (PL) and became an integral part of the team. Making his debut against Brighton, Bentancur immediately showed off his skills and passing ability, and his consistent performances have since earned him a regular spot in the starting midfield. Bentancur's performances helped Tottenham finish fourth in the PL that season and qualify for the UEFA Champions League (UCL).
In his second year, in 2022-23, the club was in a strong position. However, in the 23rd round against Leicester City, he suffered a major injury and went down. He tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). It"s a deadly injury for a soccer player and he had to undergo a long rehabilitation period.
It wasn't until October, when he came on as a substitute against Crystal Palace, that he stepped onto the pitch again. Spurs went on to win 2-1, and after the game, Spurs players approached Bentancur to congratulate him on his return.
Tottenham captain Son Heung-min also congratulated Bentancur. Speaking to 토토 Spurs Play after the game, Son said, "I was very emotional. He is an unbelievable player. His return is like a new signing for our squad."
Bentancur's return was also a big boost for Tottenham. Having lacked a clear midfield option outside of Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr, Bentancur's return gives Tottenham a stronger squad.
Since his return, Bentancur has gradually increased his playing time. But even that was short-lived. In November, Bentancur got his chance in the starting lineup against Aston Villa, but in the 27th minute, he was brought down by a hard tackle from Matty Cash. He fell to the ground, screaming in pain, and had to be replaced by Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. Bentancur's absence caused a sharp instability in the midfield and Spurs eventually lost 1-2. He made his return to the starting lineup against Bournemouth in January and has been an integral part of the team's midfield ever since.
Bentancur in solid form despite 'injury misfortune'. West Ham United midfielder Ward-Prowse has called him the most underrated player in the PL. "An underrated midfielder? I would say Bentancur. The first thing that stands out to me when I watch him is his energy and the way he moves. There's something infectious about the way he plays, he makes good decisions. I would say Bentancur."