La Gazzetta dello Sport’s correspondent in London, Davide Chinellato says Guglielmo Vicario is ‘conquering England’ and explains why Ange Postecoglou is impressed by the Italy international.
Vicario has kept four clean sheets in 14 Premier League games with Tottenham and has produced some stunning saves for Spurs this term, helping the North London side remain in the race for a Champions League placement.
La Gazzetta dello Sport’s correspondent in London, Chinellato has explained how the ex-Empoli goalkeeper has quickly become a key player in North London.
“The former Empoli star is doing so well with Tottenham that he’s considered the best [goalkeeper] in the first part of the Premier League season,” the Italian journalist said.
“He surely was the best in the opening 10 games where he helped Tottenham remain unbeaten and he probably still is even if Spurs have slown down a little. Vicario was not at fault for any of Manchester City’s three goals in the last round and continued making stunning saves.
“Vicario is conquering England not only for what he does in goal. Postecoglou has often praised him for his leadership on the pitch and the confidence he passes on to his teammates, which is what a goalkeeper must be able to do.”
Italy coach Luciano Spalletti called up Vicario for international games in September, October and November, but the 27-year-old keeper has yet to make his Azzurri debut.
“Who knows if Spalletti is keeping an eye on what happens in the Premier League and if Vicario could threaten Donnarumma’s starting status,” said Chinellato.
“For now, Tottenham are so delighted that the €20m spent in the summer, when he was almost unknown, seems to be the best money Spurs spent in the [summer] transfer campaign.”
Vicario’s Italy status has been widely debated in the Peninsula, especially following Gigio Donnarumma’s recent howlers with PSG. However, both Gigi Buffon and Walter Zenga have come out in defence of the ex-Milan keeper saying that the 24-year-old will react and won’t be replaced by Italy CT Spalletti anytime soon.
Should be Italy’s keeper…
Buffon is playing in the 5th best league in Europe, Vicario in the best… it’s a no-brainer.. Vicario should get at least some of the games. It’s the Italian mentality… very stubborn, conservative ways.. it’s why Serie A has fallen behind.