Mauricio Pochettino says Tottenham teenager Marcus Edwards reminds him of a young Lionel Messi but insists the winger has a long way to go to fulfil his potential.
Edwards is one of a handful of Spurs youngsters set to be given a chance in the EFL Cup third round against Gillingham on Wednesday but none have created as much excitement as the 17-year-old.
A left-footed attacking midfielder, with a low centre of gravity and lightning quick feet, Edwards is considered one of the brightest talents in his age group, having represented England at under-16, under-17 and under-18 levels.
Edwards joined Tottenham’s academy aged eight and there was a feeling of relief when he signed his first professional contract in August, with some fearing he might be snatched by rival clubs.
Pochettino is likely to start Edwards on the bench at White Hart Lane but he shares fans’ enthusiasm for the youngster although he adds a note of caution.
“The qualities – it’s only looks, his body and the way that he plays – remember a little bit from the beginning of Messi,” Pochettino said.
“He’s small, he’s left-footed, I remember a little bit (Erik) Lamela when he was at River Plate, remember he had long hair, when he was 14, 15 years old, there is a lot of videos on YouTube that you can see, that he took the ball, didn’t give a pass and shot straight away.
“He (Edwards) is a very good prospect and potentially he can be a top player, but we need to be patient and tell him that he has a lot of talent, enough talent to be a top player, a great player. But now it’s how he builds his future, that’s very important. And it’s our responsibility to tell him.”
(Sky Sports News)
