While Joao Palhinha and Mohammed Kudus have seamlessly adapted to life at Tottenham, one player is still struggling to find his rhythm at N17. Xavi Simons is yet to make a significant impact under Thomas Frank after joining the club on a long-term deal from RB Leipzig in the summer. There is no questioning the Dutchman’s immense talent and potential, but he has not yet managed to showcase that consistently in the Premier League.

The 22-year-old’s slow start has not been helped by Frank’s early decision to deploy him on the flanks during the opening games of the season. Simons often looked uncomfortable playing out wide, particularly on the left, where he found it difficult to adapt to the physical demands and tempo of English football. He struggled to beat defenders one-on-one and had limited influence in the final third.

Xavi Simons is still finding his feet at Tottenham under Thomas Frank.

However, it’s fair to say that Simons looks far more at home when operating as a No.10. He thrives when positioned closer to the opposition’s goal, linking up fluidly with the striker and dictating play through the middle. His impressive performances against Leeds United and Brighton offered a glimpse of...