Richarlison was RIGHTLY benched for Spurs – He has 2 goals in 20 games

According to a translation by ESPN, Richarlison has spoken out against Antonio Conte for leaving him on the bench against AC Milan. He expected to start the match but he was left out of the starting eleven, coming off the bench to play the final 20 minutes of the game.

In my opinion, even giving him 20 minutes of action is generous. Let’s not forget, Richarlison hasn’t scored or assisted since the turn of the World Cup. Worse than that, he has just 2 goal contributions in his last 20 games for Spurs.

I think that football is about more than just numbers – that goes without saying. However, I’m also of the belief that in the most important match of the season, the manager has absolutely every right to bench a player who has scored just 2 goals in 20 games.

Son Heung-Min isn’t doing much better. He’s also out of form, and this is what fans of Richalison’s will retort. Son looked low on energy and wasn’t brimming with confidence like he has been in recent seasons. However, at least he has a proven track record in the Champions League and in big games, you’d feel more confident starting an out-of-form Son than you would an out-of-form Richarlison.

I get it. Richarlison needs minutes to prove his worth but he’s not exactly starved of them. When you’re competing with Harry Kane in your primary position and Son in your secondary, you need to do something pretty impressive to guarantee first team football. 2 goals in 20 games is nowhere near impressive.

I pointed out recently that Reiss Nelson has more goal contributions in much less minutes. This is obviously a comedic comparison but a lesson can be learnt here. If Richarlison wants to play, rather than throwing a strop, he should take advantage of the minutes he is given. He’s not doing that, so why should he start?

Let me know your thoughts, Spurs fans – Am I being harsh here or is Richarlison being all talk but no action?