Brad Friedel disagrees with former Tottenham teammate Rafael van der Vaart when it comes to the need for a creative presence in Antonio Conte's XI. Something fans have pointed out ever since Christian Eriksen departed for Inter Milan just over three years ago, the Dutchman last week stated that Spurs are "missing a classic No.10" and Chelsea's Hakim Ziyech could be the answer to their issues.
Conte's 3-4-3 system doesn't accommodate a No.10, with the onus very much on the wing-backs and the two players either side of Harry Kane to be creative forces for the Lilywhites, although the striker himself and midfielders Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur have regularly contributed with goals and assists this term. Friedel does see Van der Vaart's point but he has stressed the style of player under Conte and the success that the Italian has enjoyed as a manager throughout his career.
"I understand where Rafa is coming from, he was so talented himself, but you have to take into account who the head coach is and the style of play they want to implement," said Friedel when speaking to sportingpost.com. "This is where some of the criticism of pundits and fans has come from – sometimes the games aren’t this exciting, beautiful brand of football. But most teams Conte has managed have been unbelievably successful but efficient the way they have played.
