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5 reasons Ross Barkley will choose Tottenham over Arsenal

By Rucker Haringey

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 18: Ross Barkley of Everton during the Premier League match between Everton and Hull City at Goodison Park on March 18, 2017 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 18: Ross Barkley of Everton during the Premier League match between Everton and Hull City at Goodison Park on March 18, 2017 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Toby Alderweireld of Tottenham Hotspur warms up prior to the UEFA Europa League Round of 32 second leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and KAA Gent at Wembley Stadium on February 23, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Toby Alderweireld of Tottenham Hotspur warms up prior to the UEFA Europa League Round of 32 second leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and KAA Gent at Wembley Stadium on February 23, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /

2. Tottenham’s defense

One of Ronald Koeman’s biggest issues with Barkley earlier this season was his lack of defensive work rate. While he’ll need to work hard defensively for Spurs, at least Tottenham have a solid defense to cover any of his defensive shortfalls.

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Barkley can sign with Tottenham with the knowledge that a top-notch defense will be playing behind him. It starts with the defensive midfield pairing of Mousa Dembele and Victor Wanyama. If that’s not good enough, you can look at Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen, Kyle Walker and Danny Rose in the back four. Still not satisfied? Hugo Lloris is a pretty good keeper too.

Arsenal, on the other hand, aren’t entirely sure who they would play behind Barkley. Specifically, Arsene Wenger’s defensive midfield has been a revolving door this season. Barkley isn’t going to want to risk signing with Arsenal and being forced into a defensive midfield role.

Ross Barkley is never going to be accused of being a defensive stalwart, and he’ll want to make sure his new club doesn’t require him to transform himself into one. Spurs’ solid defense equip them to provide Barkley with the cover he needs.

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