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Tottenham news: What Kyle Walker’s impending departure means for Spurs

By Rucker Haringey

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 15: Kyle Walker of Tottenham Hotspur takes a throw in during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Bournemouth at White Hart Lane on April 15, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 15: Kyle Walker of Tottenham Hotspur takes a throw in during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Bournemouth at White Hart Lane on April 15, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /
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If Kyle Walker leaves, it’ll force Tottenham to purchase a replacement

In the warm aftermath of Sunday’s North London Derby victory, Tottenham fans have been beset with some bad news. Multiple English reports claim that Kyle Walker is set to leave Spurs this summer.

The Independent claims that Walker and manager Mauricio Pochettino disagree about the player’s fitness level. Specifically, Pochettino does not think Walker is capable of playing multiple important matches within the same week. That’s why the English international failed to feature prominently in the club’s Champions League play this season.

There’s also the reality that Walker can earn significantly more money at another club. While I’m not convinced the right back will be sold this summer, the focus on this piece will be how his departure would impact the club.

First, it would obviously be a boost for Kieran Trippier. He may not be Pochettino’s ideal fullback due to his limited athleticism, but he’s played well when given the opportunity this season. It’s very possible that the former Burnley star will take Walker’s place in the starting XI. In fact, most fans see that as a certainty.

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I’m not sold that would be the case. Trippier is a solid Premier League regular, but he’s far from world-class. There’s a reason he’s squarely behind Walker in the England squad. It’s very possible that Pochettino would turn around and spend part of Walker’s transfer fee on a like for like replacement. If that happens, expect to see a young player with a lot more athleticism than Trippier.

There’s also the possibility that Kyle Walker-Peters could get his chance to really impact the senior squad. He’s been training with the first team for quite a while now. Pochettino clearly likes him, and may give him the opportunity to seize regular playing time next season. He is the Academy product who is most prepared to step up to Premier League competition next season.

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In the end, there’s a lot of time left for Pochettino and Walker to repair their relationship. If that doesn’t happen, expect the club to be open to all options to revamp the right back position. Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker-Peters will certainly receive increased playing time, but don’t be surprised if another name is added to the mix as well.

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