OPINION
Hugo Lloris gave Tottenham supporters, and football fans everywhere, a reminder of his quality on Friday night in France’s 2-0 defeat to the Netherlands.
Despite the negative scoreline for Didier Deschamps’ world champions, Lloris excelled, producing a number of terrific saves to deny a rampant Dutch team.
In truth, the shot-stopper was let down by his team mates in what was a flat performance by the French side. However, Lloris’ display did serve a purpose – reminding Tottenham supporters that he’s not finished yet.
The former Lyon man has had to suffer severe criticism this season for what has been an, admittedly, tough start to the new campaign for the 31-year-old.
He hasn’t been at his sublime best, but it’s been shocking to see fans call for Paulo Gazzaniga to be installed as first choice in Lloris’ place.
The Frenchman hasn’t been that bad, nor should his recent struggles erase his many years of fine service to Spurs. He is one the club’s legends in modern times and he deserves to be treated with more respect than he has been of late.
If his performance last night hasn’t changed Spurs’ fans’ minds then nothing will. He was absolutely sensational against Ronald Koeman’s side, essentially keeping the French in the game by himself until Memphis Depay’s late penalty put the game beyond France.
Lloris remains one of the finest shot-stoppers in world football and Mauricio Pochettino knows that. Yes, he hasn’t been as good as he can be so far this term, but he will find form once again, it’s just a minor slump.
There’s no need for Gazzaniga or anyone else to usurp him as Tottenham’s number one, and Friday night’s display made that abundantly clear.