adminTroy Deeney has never been shy about sharing his opinions, and this player was once on the receiving end of his sharpest criticism. But after the Frenchman’s stunning solo goal sealed Tottenham’s rare 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge, Deeney has been forced to eat his words—and he’s more than happy to do so.
From “Overrated” to Undeniable
Earlier this year, Deeney had labelled Tel as “arguably the most overrated player that Spurs bought” . The former Watford striker questioned whether the young forward had the mentality to succeed in the Premier League, suggesting the best wouldn’t be seen from him for another couple of seasons .
But Tel’s performance against Chelsea changed everything. The 21-year-old didn’t just score the goal that secured Tottenham’s first win at Stamford Bridge since 2018—he delivered a moment of pure brilliance that silenced the doubters .
The Moment That Made Deeney a Believer
With Chelsea down to ten men after Cole Palmer’s red card, Tel collected the ball deep inside his own half, drove past Maxence Lacroix, cut inside, and fired low into the bottom corner from range . It was a goal worthy of winning any derby, and Deeney was quick to acknowledge the shift in his thinking.
Deeney admitted that Tel has undergone a “light switch” moment since the turn of the year. “I thought Tel was arguably the most overrated player that Spurs bought, but since the turn of the year he has had a light switch in his head that says, ‘Hold on, I was at Bayern Munich, and now I could be playing in the Championship'” . He praised Tel’s increased contribution, noting that the forward is now adding assists to his game and providing a genuine outlet for the team .
A Fairness Doctrine
What makes Deeney’s praise particularly notable is his earlier defence of Tel when criticism was at its peak. Back in March, Deeney had insisted that the criticism directed at the young Frenchman was “massively unfair,” pointing to the difficulties of adapting to a new country, a new league, and a depleted squad .
“He hasn’t played enough games to know who and what he is,” Deeney said at the time. “You won’t see the best of him, probably not next season, but the season after” .
That prediction now looks prescient. Tel’s development has accelerated, and his match-winning display against Chelsea suggests the “season after” may have arrived sooner than expected.
Related Comments
@SpursTillIDie: “Deeney actually admitting he was wrong? Respect. Tel has been different gravy since the new year. That goal at the Bridge was worth the wait.”
@BlueBloodChelsea: “Painful to admit but that Tel goal was world class. Our defence parted like the Red Sea but credit where it’s due—the kid took it brilliantly.”
@TacticalTel: “Deeney’s original take was harsh but his willingness to publicly change his mind is rare in punditry. Tel’s growth has been one of the few bright spots in a chaotic Spurs season.”
@NorthLondonForever: “That ‘light switch’ comment is spot on. Tel looked lost earlier in the season but now he’s carrying the ball with purpose. The Bayern pedigree is finally showing.”
@FootballFirst: “Still think £50m is steep but if he keeps producing moments like that, Levy might actually look like a genius for once.”
@DeeneyFanAccount: “Troy taking the L with grace. This is why he’s one of the better pundits—he calls it as he sees it, even when it means admitting he got it wrong.”
The Verdict
Tel’s journey at Tottenham has been far from smooth, but moments like the one at Stamford Bridge justify the faith shown in him. For Deeney, the lesson is clear: young players need time, patience, and the right environment to flourish. And sometimes, the harshest critics become the most enthusiastic converts.
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