Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson has urged the club to retain the services of Erik Lamela this summer.
The 28-year-old will soon enter the final two years of his Spurs contract and it seems inconceivable that the club offer him another extension based on his fitness record, although that hasn’t stopped us before.
Add to that the links to Ryan Fraser and Willian, both available on free transfers, as Football London details, and Lamela’s place in the squad looks under threat after seven underwhelming seasons.
However, Robinson exclusively told Football Insider that he feels the Argentine still has a lot to offer Jose Mourinho.
He said: “I like Lamela. He has been a top player for Spurs and he has been there a long time. He has come on a couple of times this season and really made an impact going forward.
“Him and Lo Celso, when they have played together, have been a good pairing. I still think he has time left in north London.
“Jose will definitely use this upcoming window, with players that are out of contract and players that he wants to move on, to shuffle his pack and address the imbalance of the squad.”
I don’t think Robinson’s views are in line with the majority of fans who may have backed Lamela previously, but now think his time is up.
MORE: “Outlived His Usefulness – Has The Tide Finally Turned On Divisive Player
He retains a decent reputation in Italy so we should be looking to bring in some money for him or use him in a suitable swap deal.
Always like Lamela. These days he’s the only one of the entire squad with a warrior spirit, I know he’s going to work hard, look to get forward at every chance, see the defense opening pass and execute it, and then kick lumps out of surly opponents for good measure. Keep him.
What’s the point of having a dog and barking yourself? Always liked Erik, he’s aggressive, skilful a real trier, but he’s almost never there when he’s needed. We don’t have such a big squad we can carry passengers. The physical demands of the Premier League are too much for him. Let go to Italy, a bit more sedate.
Lamela has the winning mentality, he battles, has got skill.. Its such a shame injuries have blighted him. He could have been superb. His rabona goal from 30 odd yards was spectacular. So hard to do that.