Not Xavi Simons: Gary Neville claims a Tottenham player is becoming a “problem” for Thomas Frank
Not Xavi Simons: Gary Neville says Tottenham player is a “problem” for Thomas Frank
Randal Kolo Muani was given his fifth straight Premier League start as Tottenham hosted Liverpool, but the striker endured a difficult first half, prompting Gary Neville to label his display a “problem” for Spurs.
The 27-year-old was involved throughout the opening 45 minutes and attempted three shots, yet failed to make a meaningful impact, with none of his efforts troubling Liverpool. His first attempt was blocked inside five minutes, before he missed two headed chances — one drifting wide and the other straight at Alisson — which represented Tottenham’s clearest opportunity of the half.
Kolo Muani was criticised for not doing more with Spurs’ only shot on target before the break, as he continues his search for a first Premier League goal.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville was blunt in his assessment, particularly with Tottenham reduced to ten men following Xavi Simons’ red card in the 33rd minute.
“Kolo Muani is a willing runner, but he hasn’t got a goal yet, and that’s a problem,” Neville said.
“Tottenham have been struggling at home, so this would be a good moment for him to get his first Premier League goal.”
Kolo Muani has now made nine Premier League appearances for Spurs without a goal involvement, starting seven of those matches. The French forward joined on a season-long loan from Paris Saint-Germain and has scored twice this season, both coming in the Champions League during the 5–3 defeat to his parent club. He has also registered two assists in the competition.
He has featured regularly under Thomas Frank in the continued absence of Dominic Solanke, who has been sidelined since the end of August following ankle surgery, with no confirmed return date.
