Modern center backs must have a well-rounded style that includes one-on-one and open space defense if they are to succeed at the highest level.

Following his summer transfer from Wolfsburg to Tottenham, Micky van de Ven has been forced into that situation, and, as Darren Bent said to Premier League Productions (07/10/23 at 2:45 pm), opponents simply can’t get past him.

Last season, one of the major problems for Spurs was their defense, particularly the deterioration of their seasoned center-half, Eric Dier.

Although Cristian Romero himself wasn’t the problem, what was inside of and around him was, which is why Micky van de Ven was called in.

And as of right now, the Dutchman is living up to all the hype and expectations that have been placed on him this summer.

Micky van de Ven’s pace

Bent observed that Romero and him were forming a strong alliance. He moves more quickly than I anticipated, I tell you what. I spoke to other people I know who described him as swift. He’s swift, though!

“I have seen people try to outrun him, but they are unable to cross over. He has been excellent on defense and also surprised everyone with a goal. For Spurs, it’s a really, really terrific acquisition.

Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero

Tottenham’s central defenders are a big factor in why they are now leading the Premier League.

Ange Postecoglou has run with Romero and van de Ven as his new tandem, and as of right now, they are demonstrating their value in place of players like Dier.

There will be concerns about the caliber of the guys behind those two, but as long as they both stay healthy, Spurs will advance.