Rio Ferdinand has expressed his admiration for Micky van de Ven, acknowledging the Dutchman’s potential to develop into a top-tier central defender. Van de Ven has garnered significant attention from both Spurs fans and pundits following his composed performances against Brentford, Arsenal, and Liverpool.
Arguably, his standout display occurred at Kenilworth Road, where he successfully handled Luton’s physically imposing forwards, as the home team frequently resorted to direct play in the second half. Impressively, not only did Van de Ven pass this test with flying colors, but he also left his mark in the opposing box by scoring his debut goal for Tottenham.
Big praise for Van de Ven from Rio Ferdinand
Ferdinand believes that the former Wolfsburg man has managed to bring the best out of Cristian Romero, and admitted that he likes what he is seeing from their partnership.
The 44-year-old said on his YouTube channel: “The goalscorer, Micky van de Ven, better than good. He’s got a chance to be top. He’s quick, he’s aggressive. He wants to get in a foot race. And another partnership that seems to be blossoming. It’s only eight games, but it’s blossoming.
“He’s almost calmed down Romero. Romero was an absolute loose cannon last year. He’s calmed him down and they’re both playing to a very good level at the moment.
“Let’s see how it goes. But for a young centre-half, the way he’s adapted so quick to the Premier League; doesn’t mind a little rough and tumble because he had that at the weekend, and dealt with it. But also he’s clean the way he plays. I really like him – centre-back to watch out for.”
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Ferdinand knows better than most what qualities it takes to succeed as a centre-back in the Premier League and these are certainly massive words of praise for Van de Ven, who is continuing to show maturity beyond his years.