WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 19: Adam Smith of Bournemouth celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Barclays Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and A.F.C. Bournemouth at The Hawthorns on December 19, 2015 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Former Spur isn’t good enough for Tottenham
Adam Smith isn’t good enough for Tottenham
It’s easy for Tottenham fans to get attached to the idea of bringing former Spurs back to the club this summer. In some cases, it could be the right move for Mauricio Pochettino. Unfortunately, purchasing Adam Smith wouldn’t do the club any good.
With all due respect to the Bournemouth right back, he just isn’t a good enough player for this version of Tottenham. He’s found his level with Eddie Howe’s club and he’d be wise to stay put as long as he can remain a starter there.
Unfortunately, some English reports have emerged that claim Tottenham are interested in a reunion with Smith. The idea that Spurs will want to purchase a new right back this summer is predicated on Kyle Walker leaving the club. If England’s number one does leave Spurs, Mauricio Pochettino will certainly consider adding a fullback to replace him.
Smith just isn’t that fullback. He deserves credit for appearing in 34 league matches this season for the Cherries, but his Whoscored.com player rating average of 6.83 properly illustrates the type of player he is. It’s a mediocre player rating for a pretty average Premier League regular.
In fairness, it’s a higher level than most Tottenham officials thought he’d reach when he originally left the club. At that time, few would have predicted Smith to become a regular Premier League starter. I, for one, thought his future would likely top out in the Championship. His ascendancy to England’s top flight is a credit to his work ethic and dedication.
I’ll even admit that Smith returning to his boyhood club does hold some romantic appeal. Most Spurs fans would prefer to see Academy players rise through the ranks and achieve stardom with the club. That’s not a realistic notion though. For every Harry Kane that breaks into the senior squad, there are dozens of Adam Smith’s that need to move elsewhere to find regular playing time.
The idea that Adam Smith could return to Tottenham and thrive is a good story, but it’s purely fiction. Spurs need to set their sights much higher to replace Kyle Walker if their first choice right back leaves this summer.
