O’Hara says Spurs defender Doherty is not anywhere near Trippier’s level

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Jamie O’Hara has told talkSPORT that Matt Doherty is not anywhere near Kieran Trippier’s level – and suggested that the Tottenham Hotspur defender would admit that himself.

Trippier has proved to be an amazing signing for Newcastle United. His arrival acted as the catalyst for a huge upturn in their fortunes on the pitch last season. And obviously, from there they have kicked on significantly.

In fact, the 32-year-old is potentially playing as well as he ever has done in his Premier League career. And because of that, O’Hara did not hesitate when asked to pick between him and Doherty for a combined side made up of Newcastle and Spurs players.

Doherty not anywhere near Trippier’s level

Doherty has been excellent in recent months for Antonio Conte’s side. And he has started to get back to his best, with Conte praising his performance against Everton.

Nevertheless, O’Hara suggested that only one would make his lineup ahead of their clash this weekend.

“I love Doc, great lad, he’s one of my mates. But I think he’d say himself that he’s not anywhere near Trippier’s level. Trippier’s been a top player now for a long period of time,” he told talkSPORT.

Tottenham fans would probably agree with O’Hara’s statement. Of course, the pundit believes that Doherty himself would make the same selection.

Unfortunately, right wing-back has been an issue during Conte’s tenure. For much of his spell, he has put faith in Emerson Royal.

Royal is obviously a very decent player. However, he is really exposed whenever he gets anywhere near the final third. And having a player who provides a threat going forward is crucial to Conte’s system.

Doherty is much better in those areas of the pitch. And Spurs supporters will probably be hoping that he or Djed Spence manage to make the position their own in the near future.

But certainly, there have been few who have been better in that role over the last year than Trippier. And Tottenham will be wary of the threat he possesses when they meet this weekend.