Playing for 90
Fansided

Tottenham’s interest in Manchester United star shouldn’t depend on Danny Rose

By Rucker Haringey

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 31: Luke Shaw of Manchester United speaks at the launch of the club's partnership with Mlily at Aon Training Complex on October 31, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 31: Luke Shaw of Manchester United speaks at the launch of the club's partnership with Mlily at Aon Training Complex on October 31, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Tottenham could play Luke Shaw and Danny Rose together

On the surface, it seems that Tottenham’s interest in buying Luke Shaw from Manchester United only makes sense if Danny Rose departs the club. If you look a bit deeper, it’s easy to envision a scenario where Mauricio Pochettino plays both men at the same time.

The Independent is carrying the story that Shaw is almost certain to depart Old Trafford this summer. Jose Mourinho isn’t happy with his lack of development, and wants to ship him out to raise funds to buy new players. If he does hit the transfer market, Chelsea and Tottenham are mentioned as potential transfer destinations.

Of course, Tottenham already possess arguably the best left back in England in the form of Danny Rose. The 26-year-old fullback has blossomed under Pochettino’s tutelage and has seized a place on the England squad. When Spurs think of positions they need to strengthen in the summer, left back certainly isn’t on the list.

However, Tottenham’s recent change in formation to a 3-4-3 might open up some additional opportunities for Shaw and Rose to play together. In particular, Shaw could move to play the left centre-half spot currently occupied by Jan Vertonghen. The Belgian, unfortunately, must be characterized as an injury-risk at this point in his career. At the very least, Shaw could provide cover there.

More from Tottenham Hotspur

There’s also the possibility that Shaw and Rose could play together in a 4-4-2 formation. In this instance, Rose could play as the traditional left back while Shaw would be thrust further forward. His offensive skill could really help unlock defenses that try to sit back against Spurs.

Just imagine the nightmare that possibility would create for opposing Premier League defenders. Rose and Shaw could constantly interchange throughout the match. Not only would it create a great deal of confusion for the opponent, it would also allow both players to stay fresh for the full 90 minutes. I acknowledge this is a radical proposal, but it really has some merit.

At the very least, purchasing Shaw would provide Tottenham a significant upgrade over Ben Davies. The Welshman has done an adequate job in relief of Rose, but lacks the speed to be an ideal fullback under Pochettino. Shaw would allow the Spurs manager to rotate his left back position much more freely.

Next: Tottenham defender on Manchester City's radar

In the end, Shaw’s price tag might prevent Tottenham from making a bold move to sign him this summer. He’s a lot easier to fit into the Chelsea starting XI. That doesn’t mean Spurs shouldn’t think creatively about the advantages he could provide. Adding a unique talent like Luke Shaw could be just what Tottenham need to win a Premier League title.

Home/Tottenham Hotspur