Squad depth is, without doubt, one of the deciding factors in who wins and who loses. The Premier League is such a deep competition that finishing even in the European spot requires a deep squad. Antonio Conte arrived mid-season and worked a miracle by getting an otherwise shallow Spurs team into Europe. With more signings coming this summer, though, Spurs are also believed to be looking to three key academy talents to help add to the squad.
One name who is expected to get a chance next year is Alfie Devine. At only 17, Devine has the potential to really go to a new level in the coming years. His development could be rapid if given the chance to play on even a semi-regular basis. Regarded as an excellent listener and someone who is keen to develop, Devine could be the one who really takes that big jump this summer.
He is seen as one of the most exciting young talents around the team, and has been since his arrival from Wigan Athletic in 2020. Already, he has made his debut and also scored against Marine FC in the FA Cup under that famous developer of youth in Jose Mourinho. Many at Spurs see Devine as someone who should, and will, be around the first team picture for a long time to come.
He is expected to stay at the club this summer, though he could also be loaned out in January if things do not progress as hoped. Much like fellow youth hopeful Troy Parrott, the hope is that regular senior football will do wonders for his development. For now, though, Devine will get a chance to impress in pre-season and show Antonio Conte he can contribute in his new-look side.
Other exciting Spurs youth set for chance?
Another name that has been linked with making an impact this year is Dane Scarlett. Scarlett is expected to get a chance in the first team, having been tipped for big things by the past three Spurs managers. Conte spoke in April in glowing terms about the lad, saying that he was seeing daily improvement and growth. He might be loaned out, but at the moment most reports suggest he will stick around to help bolster the squad.
At 18, he has time on his side, but a move to League One could become possible if he looks too good to simply sit on the bench.
Nile John is another player who is getting a lot of positive feedback. The 19-year-old has supposedly been given the chance to be part of the team this summer and has already made a big impression in the UEFA Conference League tournament. He was a key performer in the U23s, and could become a bench option for Conte and his team in the season to come.
However, a poor loan spell at Leyton Orient was a waste of time for all involved – if he is going to continue his rise as expected, either a first-team chance or a better-planned loan will be needed.
All three names mentioned – and Parrott, also – are seen as potential options in the long-term future for the club. As soon as this season, though, all three could join Oliver Skipp as the next generation of youth graduates.
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