Micky van de Ven endured a first half to forget against Newcastle (Picture: Getty)

Micky van de Ven was given the big build-up ahead of Tottenham’s Premier League showdown against Newcastle, but the Spurs centre-half endured an afternoon to forget.

The Netherlands international has proven to be one of the signing of the season following his largely unheralded arrival from Wolfsburg.

Explosive recovery pace and a calmness on the ball have been hallmarks of the 22-year-old’s performances this term, and led Rio Ferdinand single him out for praise ahead of kick-off.

‘He’s an absolute Rolls Royce of a centre-half and has the chance to be one of the best around,’ the former Manchester United star told TNT Sport.
Van de Ven looked anything but a Rollys Royce, however, during a torrid opening 45 minutes at St James’ Park during which he was booked, before making mistakes for both of Newcastle goals.

The Dutchman was at fault on the half hour mark when he lost his footing when confronted by Alexander Isaka and hit the turf just two minutes later under pressure from the rampant Anthony Gordon.

Alexander Isak gives Newcastle the lead! 🤩

That’s 2⃣0⃣ goals for the season! 🔥

📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/EEvFzZD9ir— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 13, 2024

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