Shaka Hislop has issued his verdict on the performance of Bryan Gil after Tottenham Hotspur were beaten by Aston Villa on Sunday.
Hislop was speaking on ESPN after Spurs produced a superb performance, but suffered their third defeat in a row against Unai Emery’s side.
Injuries and suspension have ravaged the Tottenham squad. Ange Postecoglou picked four full-backs to make up his back four. Meanwhile, the likes of Giovani Lo Celso and Bryan Gil came in for a rare start.
Shaka Hislop praises Bryan Gil after Tottenham loss
In fact, Gil had not started a league game for Tottenham this season before Sunday. And it showed at times as he perhaps made the wrong decision when in and around the penalty area.
However, the Spaniard showed flashes of his quality, too. Gil produced a glorious cross which nearly found Son Heung-min six yards out. And his energy caused Aston Villa problems at times.
Shaka Hislop noted how the strength on Villa’s bench played a decisive role in guiding the visitors to victory. And as he analysed the problems Tottenham currently face, he did pick the 22-year-old out for praise following his performance.
“Contrast that with Postecoglou having to go to his bench. Gil who was outstanding in the first-half having to come off, Bentancur having to come off,” he told ESPN.
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“Hojbjerg and Skipp coming on, not necessarily the same quality replacements in a squad, as I’ve already mentioned, which was already weakened due to injuries. That, for me, was telling.”
Great opportunity for winger
Spurs could take a lot of positives from the performance. They went toe to toe with one of the best teams in the division right now. And they were arguably the better side over the 90 minutes.
Gil was one of those who staked a claim for more game-time. It has been a difficult time for the youngster since his move to North London.
But he showed that he can make an impact in the Premier League. And that is particularly impressive given that his time at Tottenham has been stop-start.
Spurs will be without James Maddison for the rest of the calendar year. And he is one of a number of players currently on the sidelines.
So there will be chances for Gil in the coming weeks. Therefore, it may be the spell which proves to be a turning point for the winger in his Tottenham career.