English Media United in Assessment of Xavi Simons‘ Villarreal Performance
Following Tottenham HotspurS 1-0 Champions League victory over Villarreal - secured by a goalkeeping error from Luiz Júnior following a Lucas Bergvall cross – English media outlets largely agreed on the performance of Xavi Simons. reports consistently described the Dutchman as largely ineffective and fortunate to remain on the pitch.
The Standard noted Simons was “lucky not to be sent off” after a foul on Nicolas Pépé while already on a yellow card, adding he was “largely unconvincing” despite some promising moments cutting inside. They awarded him a rating of 5.
Football.london gave Simons a 6, acknowledging “flashes” of ability, including a shot that went close, but criticized his lack of involvement while playing on the left flank.The outlet stated, “Playing on the left flank did not really get him in the game,” and also pointed out he was “lucky that he didn’t get a second yellow card.”
Spurs Web highlighted the positive link-up play between Simons and left-back Djed Spence through overlapping runs, but also acknowledged Simons’ luck following a ”reckless tackle” on Pépé, awarding him a 6.
GiveMeSport described Simons’ performance as “less present than hoped,” stating he attempted to influence the game but lacked a decisive impact. He also received a 6 from this publication.
In contrast to the criticism leveled at Simons, his compatriot Micky van de Ven received widespread praise. The Standard awarded him a 7, praising his “impressive” speed and defensive solidity. Football.london also gave a 7, while Spurs Web was most effusive, awarding an 8 and commending his “insight and crucial interventions.” GiveMeSport concluded with a 7, describing Van de Ven as “strong and powerful as always.”