Copyright Yardbarker
Gareth Southgate labels Tottenham Hotspur star one of the best in Europe as striker continues to struggle with injuries In a revealing episode of The Sports Agents podcast, former England manager Gareth Southgate opened up about his surprise at Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke’s career journey, praising the forward’s persistence and growth after years away from the spotlight. Southgate reflected on how Solanke, once one of Europe’s most promising young strikers, has taken a “longer route” to the top from Chelsea’s academy to Bournemouth and now to Tottenham Hotspur. The ex-England boss used Solanke’s rise to highlight a broader issue in English football: that talent alone isn’t enough without opportunity and consistent playing time. The 54-year-old also discussed his decision to step down as England manager, shared his perspective on Thomas Tuchel’s handling of Jude Bellingham, and addressed speculation surrounding a possible move to Manchester United. moreover, Southgate recalled managing Solanke and Tammy Abraham in England’s junior teams, where both were considered top European prospects. “I remember in our junior international teams, Solanke as a youngster, he was one of the best in Europe without a doubt, along with Tammy Abraham at that time,” Southgate said. “But then players need the chance to go and play. Talent needs the chance to play.” He explained that both strikers faced challenges during their formative years at big clubs, where competition limited their playing time. “In some of their formative years, they were at big clubs where they didn’t get the chance to play and develop and mature,” Southgate added. “Dominic then ended up going to Bournemouth and he’s now at Spurs. That’s been a longer route than we might have thought when he was younger.” Southgate’s reflections underscore his long-held belief that consistent game time is key to player growth, a philosophy that shaped his tenure as England manager. Solanke’s career resurgence serves as proof that persistence and patience can still pave the path to success in modern football. Spurs’ Patience Paying Off Tottenham’s decision to sign Solanke was seen by many as a calculated gamble, bringing in a late bloomer rather than a headline star. However, under Postecoglou’s system, the 28-year-old flourished, scoring 16 goals in 45 appearances. Since Thomas Frank’s arrival, though, Solanke has struggled for game time due to an ankle injury that is expected to sideline him for most of the season. His hold-up play, off-ball movement, and link-up ability have added a new dimension to Spurs’ attack. As noted earlier, Solanke’s goal contribution rate has rivalled that of some of the Premier League’s most established forwards. For Southgate, this progression reflects a deeper truth about English football: the importance of trusting players who take non-linear routes to the top. “Sometimes players just need time,” he said. “You can’t measure everyone by the same path. What matters is how they respond when the opportunity finally comes.” While Southgate hasn’t revealed his next role, The Guardian reports his growing interest in youth development. Whether he returns to management or takes a break, his legacy built on nurturing young talent through sport remains central to modern English football. His belief in developing character as much as skill has shaped a generation, laying the foundation for a brighter, more grounded future for the game.
