Tottenham youngster Ashley Phillips is poised to receive a significant opportunity to impress under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou.
According to John Wenham, Phillips will likely showcase his talents in an upcoming behind-closed-doors friendly for Spurs.
The club insider disclosed that the 19-year-old defender is expected to start in the friendly against Cambridge United. This match is set to occur at Hotspur Way on Saturday, 13 July.
With the club’s primary centre-backs away on international duties, this friendly provides Phillips with a golden chance to step up and demonstrate his value to Ange Postecoglou.
Phillips joined Tottenham from Blackburn Rovers last summer, securing a five-year contract after Spurs activated his €2.3 million release clause.
In January, he was loaned to Championship side Plymouth Argyle, where he made a substantial impact. Phillips played in 20 matches for Plymouth, aiding them in avoiding relegation and earning the club’s Young Player of the Season award. (Transfermarkt)
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, Phillips is not only physically imposing but also proficient with both feet, showcasing composure and versatility on the ball. The young centre-back has the potential to challenge for a starting spot at Tottenham.
Wenham believes Phillips will seize this opportunity with determination, suggesting he could feature in more pre-season games.
This exposure will allow him to demonstrate his capabilities and potentially secure a more prominent role within the squad, reducing the likelihood of another loan move.
Speaking to Tottenham News, Wenham said:
“All three of our centre-backs have been at the Euros or Copa America.
“That will offer Phillips a huge opportunity to prove himself against Cambridge United on Saturday.
“I imagine we will see Phillips for the next few pre-season games.
“He will look to grab that chance with two hands, and I don’t imagine there will be any hurrying up from Tottenham in terms of a loan for him at the moment.”
As Phillips prepares to showcase his abilities in the friendly, Spurs supporters anticipate seeing how this promising young talent continues to develop under Postecoglou.