Gary Neville was in disbelief after witnessing Micky van de Ven’s incredible assist against Manchester United
Micky van de Ven produced one of the best assists from a centre-back in Premier League history during Sunday afternoon’s clash between Manchester United and Spurs.
Ange Postecoglou’s team started strong at Old Trafford, with center-back Van de Ven making a stunning 60-yard run to set up Brennan Johnson. Johnson, who has silenced his critics recently with solid performances, scored from close range, giving Spurs an early advantage. However, Van de Ven received most of the praise.
“Absolutely brilliant,” commented Gary Neville on Sky Sports. “One of the best runs I’ve ever seen from a center-back.”
Here’s that moment:
A rapid start from Tottenham ⚡
Micky van de Ven makes an incredible run and perfectly sets it up for Brennan Johnson.
Van de Ven has provided more assists than any other Spurs player in the Premier League this season, earning him significant praise. Many also expressed frustration at Manchester United’s lack of urgency.
One commentator remarked, “How can a team be set up this poorly? Van de Ven had so much space to run.” Another noted, “His speed is like a cheat code—one of the most powerful runners in this league,” while a third called him “an absolute machine.”
Someone else added, “That was an incredible run, but United’s defense was pathetic.” Another observer pointed out, “Ugarte should have stopped Van de Ven, but he only realized the danger when he was almost past him.”
Van de Ven’s speed isn’t surprising; he recorded the fastest speed in Premier League history at 37.38 kilometers per hour last season. Postecoglou has praised him as “a pretty special footballer” after he carried the ball over 70 yards to assist Heung-min Son against Everton.
Micky van de Ven has truly showcased his athleticism and ball-carrying ability in Tottenham’s match against Manchester United, leaving fans and pundits in awe of his stunning assist. His 60-yard run to set up Brennan Johnson’s goal was a combination of pace, vision, and technical skill, which is not often seen from a center-back.
Gary Neville’s praise on Sky Sports highlights the significance of this moment, calling it “one of the best runs from a center-back” ever seen in the Premier League. Van de Ven’s ability to make such powerful, forward runs is a testament to his speed and ball control, factors that have made him stand out in Ange Postecoglou’s system.
The reactions to United’s defensive performance were largely critical, with commentators pointing out how easily Van de Ven was allowed space. Manuel Ugarte’s failure to anticipate the danger earlier drew particular attention, as some believe he could have prevented the assist with more urgency. Manchester United’s sluggish start and defensive frailties were key talking points, as they allowed Tottenham to capitalize on their lack of intensity.
Van de Ven, with his record-breaking speed, continues to be a key asset for Spurs, impressing both defensively and offensively. His assist in this game adds to his growing reputation, further cementing his place as one of the most dynamic defenders in the league.
