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Soccer
'A creative hole at crunch time'
TL;DR
Simons' injury significantly impacts Tottenham's attacking performance, as the team wins more matches and scores more goals when he plays. His absence comes at a crucial time in the season.
Key points
- Simons' injury is season-ending.
- Tottenham performs better with Simons in the lineup.
- Spurs score more goals when he starts.
Tottenham
Simons' influence on Tottenham has been clear.
When he plays, Spurs look sharper and more threatening in the final third. His presence raises the tempo, links midfield to attack and forces opponents to adjust to Spurs rather than the other way around.
His season-ending injury removes one of their most important attacking figures at a pivotal moment.
Results highlight the gap he leaves.
Spurs win a higher percentage of Premier League matches when Simons starts and average more goals - scoring 1.5 per game compared with one when he is not in the starting XI.
[BBC]
Recent displays underline the scale of his contribution.
In the 2-2 draw with Brighton and the 1-0 win over Wolves - their first victory of 2026 - Simons created more chances (four) than any other Spurs player and led the side for shots (six). He was also among the top contributors for touches in the box, ball carries and completed passes.
Those figures show how he drives Spurs forward and sustains pressure in advanced areas. Without that, the risk is Spurs lose a key source of control in matches where small margins could shape their season.
The challenge is heightened by what comes next.
Spurs face Aston Villa and Chelsea - both chasing Champions League places - then meet Leeds, who are not yet safe, before a final-day trip to Everton, where David Moyes may still be pushing for Europe.
Q&A
How does Simons' injury affect Tottenham's performance?
Simons' injury leads to a decrease in Tottenham's win percentage and goal average, as they score 1.5 goals per game with him and only one without.
What is the significance of Simons in Tottenham's lineup?
Simons links midfield to attack, raises the tempo, and makes Spurs more threatening, making his presence crucial for their success.
What are Tottenham's stats with and without Simons this season?
Tottenham wins a higher percentage of matches and averages 1.5 goals per game when Simons starts compared to one goal per game when he does not.
