Hugo Lloris’ long-term future at Tottenham Hotspur has been unclear for some time now.
The 33-year-old’s form has been called into question over the past few seasons and with Paulo Gazzaniga’s more than ample deputising, it has asked the question of how long does Lloris still have at the top?
Lloris’ form in the Champions League has been particularly worrying, with a handful of poor displays this season. Similarly, his behaviour off the pitch has raised eyebrows after it was revealed he was twice over the drink-driving limit back in 2018.
A potential successor to Lloris at Spurs is Manchester United’s Dean Henderson – currently on loan at high-flying Sheffield United. The England hopeful has impressed Premier League crowds this season with a string of fine performances which has included ten clean sheets and one penalty save.
Tipped to replace Jordan Pickford as England’s No. 1, Henderson may have a selection of clubs to choose from when his Blades loan runs out this summer.
His rise has been sharp, playing for League Two Grimsby Town as recently as 2017, and the Manchester United-owned ‘keeper has improved year-on-year.
The 23-year-old has been called into action less frequently than Lloris – owing to Sheffield United’s rigidity in defence – but has impressed when called upon. Averaging a 76% save percentage, Henderson ranks highly among Premier League ‘keepers.
Depending on how José Mourinho would use Henderson, his distribution may need improvement. In attempting long balls, less than one-in-three are accurate, compared to Lloris’ figure which stands at 42%.
Nevertheless, one area of Lloris’ game which has drawn criticism is his concentration in games. His performances have been flawed in the Champions League this season, and he has made two errors leading to goals in the Premier League despite playing fewer than 1,000 minutes.
Comparably, Henderson has made just one error of such nature. That was in a peculiar situation where Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey carried on playing and scored while Henderson stopped due to confusion over an offside call.
While Tottenham’s defensive frailties may expose more of Henderson’s game, at present he is one of the most impressive young goalkeepers in Europe. Given that he is also contracted to Manchester United until 2022, means he will not come cheap.
However, David De Gea will more than likely retain the No. 1 spot at Old Trafford until at least the end of his current deal in 2023, so Henderson will be looking for first-team football elsewhere.
