As Gareth Bale was picking up his PFA gong last night, Kyle Naughton made it into the Championship team of the season after his consistent performances for Leicester City.
The 22 year old has impressed at Filbert Street and the reward acknowledges the potential that this player offers. He has performed solidy in defence and also chipped in with some useful goals as Leicester climbed the table.
As far as the future is concerned, fellow right back Kyle Walker looks likely to return to the Lane and challenge for a first team place. The award suggests that for Naughton as well, there could be a future at White Hart Lane and maybe his next move could mirror that of Walker’s with a loan to a Premier League side next term?
I find the case of the two Kyles rather interesting. Naughton gets forward down the wing fairly regularly which is what Harry wants our full backs to do. But Walker is built better to handle the physicality of premier league attackers. I don’t really have much to base this on except a few matches caught here or there (so don’t jump on me), but Naughton seems to have a better mental grasp, a better understanding of the game. But then again, Walker is proving himself and at a younger age. Walker’s two goals for villa were something special.
I don’t think it’s decision time for either of these guys, and their climb to first team at the lane depends on who leaves in the summer and whether veteran talent is brought in. They’re both young and will have chances to push for a place next season and seasons to come.
Filbert Street.
Lol.