Ray Parlour has explained it will be difficult for youngster Harry Winks to get lots of game time at Tottenham due to the fierce competition in midfield.
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant week after completing 90 minutes for Spurs in wins over Apoel Nicosia in the Champions League and Huddersfield in the Premier League.
He has also been rewarded with his first ever international call-up to England’s senior squad and has linked up with Gareth Southgate’s squad after leaving the Under-21s side.
However, Winks has struggled for minutes this season despite a positive week and is considered to be more of a squad player under Mauricio Pochettino.
The central midfielder has started just one league games this season and has the likes of Victor Wanyama, Eric Dier, Moussa Sissoko and Mousa Dembele competing alongside him for a starting XI slot.
Parlour is tipping Winks to become a top player in the future, but feels he will struggle in the immediate future with minutes on the pitch.
“I think Harry Winks is going to be a top star,” Parlour told talkSPORT. “I think he’s a really good back up (for England) and he’s still learning. I’m sure he’s enjoying playing for Spurs when he gets his opportunities.
“But they have got a very good midfield once they’re all fit, Spurs. So it’s going to be difficult for Harry to get lots of game time.”
OPINION
Winks is someone that has really benefited from Pochettino and he appears to be a big favourite of the manager. The midfielder is a technically gifted player that is excellent in possession and looks ready to become a regular starter for Spurs. The 21-year-old is now at an age where he needs to start cement his position in the side and is beginning to lose his youth tag. Dembele and Wanyama should be the preferred combination in the centre of the park when every player is fit as the duo form a colossal partnership. However, Winks offers a different alternative in the centre of the park and is cultured passing can earn him more minutes this year across all of the competitions Spurs are competing in.