Yves Bissouma has struggled to emulate the form he has shown at Brighton since joining Tottenham last summer.
Former Tottenham striker Louis Saha has drawn comparisons between Yves Bissouma and Tanguy Ndombele after the Mali international’s uncomfortable start in north London. There is an impression that Spurs pulled off a major coup when they landed the aggressive midfielder last summer from Brighton in a deal worth around £25 million.
But for one reason or another, Bissouma has struggled to live up to expectations since switching to Spurs – failing to find a place in the side.
Even when he was performing, Bissouma failed to replicate the same ball-winning abilities that made his name at Amex.
In Saha’s view, the player’s struggles are difficult to understand given that he has all the attributes needed to be successful.
He told Boyle Sports: “Yves Bissouma’s struggles are confusing, but younger players never guarantee success.
“I don’t know why Bissouma is struggling. He is technically brilliant and physically he is a monster.”
The former France player believes Bissouma is walking the same path as Ndombele after the Napoli loanee failed to move up the ladder at Tottenham despite his talent.
“Odd and Tanguy Ndombele also fought and went to Italy,” added Saha.
“Conte’s frustration comes from midfield because there is talent there, but we still need experienced players – look at what Christian Eriksen has brought to United.
Casemiro is a legend, a five-time Champions League winner and he changed United in a big way.
“I think Spurs are asking too much from Bissouma too soon.”
Bissouma has appeared in all but two of Spurs’ 18 Premier League games this season – starting just eight of them.
He also looked set to step down the pecking order when Rodrigo Bentancur returned to action to partner Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the middle of the park.
In recent weeks, Conte has also shown loyalty to young prospect Pape Matar Sarr, who continues to seek more senior minutes.
There is interest on the loan from Salernitana but Conte is expected to keep the Senegal international at Spurs this month.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are hoping Napoli will seek to sign Ndombele on a permanent deal following his loan spell in Italy.
The Frenchman was recently caught arguing with Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti following the 1-0 loss to Inter, sparking fears their relationship could sour.