In the case of Tottenham’s thunderous 6’4” centre-back, Sunday’s display was no accident. He tallied two jaw-dropping goals in City’s recent 4-0 romp against Everton. His electrifying display guided Spurs to a dominant 3-0 win. Only 14 matches into the Frank era, he became the club’s all-time leading scorer. With this win, Van de Ven has proven instrumental in Spurs’ recent successes, especially during a period marked by injuries to key players.
Van de Ven had a challenging 2024/25 season, plagued by injuries and unable to score. The way he’s bounced back has been remarkable. The young centre-back netted twice in the opening 45 minutes to spark a triumphant rout against Everton, marking the ideal stage-setting display. He possesses elite offensive ability. Most remarkable of all though, is the fact that he’s outscored most of his fellow centre-backs while doing it.
During the game, Van de Ven displayed his impressive defensive prowess. Beyond the numbers, he was a great creator for the attack as well. His goals were the product of his detailed set-piece training with set-piece coach Andreas Georgson. Van de Ven and Georgson are a great pair, and like all great pairs, their work is starting to show dividends. Recently, Spurs have been making a larger impact from set-pieces, particularly free-kicks and corners.
Van de Ven’s impact on the game goes far beyond the points he’s scored. He has been a key player for Spurs, helping the team navigate challenges without creative stars like Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison. At 22 years old, he’s made 31 caps for the Dutch national team. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime performance that shows great maturity beyond his years. His overall impact on the game versus Everton was transformational, which is a wonderful reflection of his increased influence in the squad.
Along with his stellar goal-scoring achievements, Van de Ven’s physical frame is a major asset on the field. Only five players on the field—including both teams combined—were at least three inches shorter than him. This vertical advantage really accented his authority in the air and on corners and set-pieces. This mix of physicality and technicality is what makes him such a crucial piece for Tottenham Hotspur.
Van de Ven’s impressive start to the season includes starting five out of Spurs’ six league matches since the arrival of fellow player Xavi Simons. The way he’s been able to fit right into the team’s changing tactics and formation shows just how much of an adaptable and hard-working player he is.
For his part, Frank, Tottenham’s manager, can hardly mask his delight at Van de Ven’s display and Georgson’s work.
“Big praise to Micky, and especially to Andreas [Georgson, Spurs set-piece coach],” – Frank
This acknowledgment reflects not only Van de Ven’s contributions but the collective effort behind Spurs’ renewed attacking threat from set-pieces. As Spurs look to rack up the good times, Van de Ven’s contribution will surely stay at the forefront of their quest for glory.
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