Darren Bent says 'spectacular' Postecoglou favourite will really struggle to start for Tottenham this season

Tottenham Hotspur significantly bolstered their squad over the summer, but it could actually be to the detriment of one of last season’s top performers.

The North London club marked their return to the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Villarreal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Lucas Bergvall’s deflected cross proved to be the only goal of the game, in what was a rather disappointing performance from Tottenham Hotspur.

But once again, one of Ange Postecoglou’s favourite players was forced to watch from the bench, and his limited minutes will be a concern.

Darren Bent fears Brennan Johnson will struggle to start under Thomas Frank

Bent fears that Brennan Johnson could struggle to start under Frank, despite his impressive goal-scoring feats last season.

The winger netted 18 goals in all competitions for Spurs, including the winning goal in the Europa League final. Under Postecoglou, Johnson was a real favourite, but that’s not quite been the case under Spurs’ new boss.

But now, Spurs have a plethora of attacking options out wide, with the likes of Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Wilson Odobert, and Mathys Tel.

Spurs’ former striker now believes that Johnson will struggle to start much this term for Tottenham, which could force him to reconsider his future in North London.

Bent told TalkSPORT: “They’ve made one or two signings that I quite like. Even getting Palhinha on loan – I thought that was a really good signing for the midfield, which they probably needed. Xavi Simons and Kudus as well.

“I don’t think Mathys Tel has quite got going yet since he’s been there. Even Kolo Muani, whom we haven’t seen yet, was brought in on loan. Overall, they’ve made some really good signings. Add Thomas Frank to that, and I think they’re a really good outfit.

“I think they play really good football. I like that Spurs aren’t just one-dimensional now. That’s the key difference – the game plan and the personnel. For Ange, someone like Brennan Johnson is perfect for the system he wants to play. All of a sudden, Brennan, who did really well last year and scored some spectacular goals, isn’t a guaranteed starter.”

Johnson was introduced for Simons after 77 minutes to make his Champions League debut, making 12 touches.

Brennan Johnson could get chances after Xavi Simons’ left-wing struggles

Simons started at left wing against Villarreal, but it became clear that he could be better suited to playing in a more central role.

Frank said Simons and Spence lack cohesion down the left side, and that could see the Dane may well look to change his set-up against Brighton.

Speaking after the game, Frank told the media: “I think on the left side, Xavi and Djed, good against West Ham, but it’s not 100% in sync when maybe it’s not going

Johnson looks to be the most likely candidate to come in to replace Simons, should he be moved into the number ten role.

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