Marcus Edwards’ Emergence in Sporting’s Attack – Breaking The Lines
Marcus Edwards is the diminutive Englishman making waves in Portugal. In a classic example of taking one step back to take two steps forward, he traded the bright lights of the Premier League for sunnier climbs in the Iberian Peninsula. But now Edward’s career is coming full circle, with impressive spells at Vitória de Guimarães and Sporting leading to calls for a return to former club Tottenham Hotspur.
After storming through the ranks in north London under Mauricio Pochettino, who compared him to Lionel Messi, Edwards struggled for minutes and fitness. But a loan spell at Excelsior showed Edwards’ talent as he topped the Eredivisie for dribbles completed per game (3.3), ironically finishing ahead of Steven Bergwijn, who would join Tottenham the following season. Despite impressive on loan, Edwards joined Vitória de Guimarães in 2019 where he grew in strength, even scoring against Arsenal in the Europa League.
A move to Sporting beckoned in 2022 and, as confirmed by Sporting fan Nuno Mourão, he made the move with ease. “Marcus Edwards has continued to develop since he came on board just over a year ago and, with his shy and very reserved manner, has proven to be one of the most crucial players on the team. Despite Sporting CP having a poor season, Marcus has managed ten goals and seven assists in just over 30 games so far.”
Edwards’ curvaceous runs and low center of gravity have instantly endeared him to Sporting fans, while his Champions League performances have raised his profile at home. “I would highlight his great ability in 1×1 situations, the way he moves from the outside in, his ability to come out under pressure and his ability to make key passes.”
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At 24, Edwards still has a lot of room for improvement. But as he has shown at every stage of his career, he is a strong willed individual who is not afraid to put in hard work to make it at the highest level. “On the other hand, there are moments when he seems unfocused during the game and needs to improve his consistency. But he’s one of those players who just has that natural talent and instinct that you can’t learn. You know he can always do something special to win the game for us.”
Tottenham had to give up 15% of the 50% sell clause they believed Edwards had in order to secure Sporting full-back Pedro Porro’s loan. But with Edwards declaring he would welcome a return to the Premier League, Tottenham could look to bring him home this summer.
By: Sam Tabuteau / @TabteauS
Featured image: @GabFoligno / Getty Images