Richarlison, Tottenham’s record signing, has come under fire for his lack of goals in the Premier League. The Brazilian has yet to score a goal in the league this season and was labelled a ‘flop’ after coming on as a late substitute in Spurs’ 1-0 defeat to Wolves. Richarlison has featured in 17 out of a possible 26 league games this season, registering two assists, but has failed to find the back of the net.
Former Aston Villa striker and talkSPORT host, Gabby Agbonlahor, questioned Spurs’ decision to spend £60 million on the Brazilian. “I look at Lucas Moura getting brought on before Richarlison, what does that say about how much of a flop he is?” he said. “He hasn’t scored a Premier League goal this season and he cost £60 million! £60 million!”
Richarlison’s lack of production has put Tottenham’s top-four spot under threat, with the club suffering a damaging defeat to Wolves and being knocked out of the FA Cup by Championship side Sheffield United. Heung-min Son returned to the line-up, with Richarlison making way for him, and fellow Brazilians Lucas Moura and Emerson Royal were seen as better options to try and take something from the game.
Richarlison’s pigeon dance celebration at the World Cup also came under scrutiny, with Agbonlahor questioning his ability to perform at the highest level. “In the World Cup when he’s playing with these superstars he’s dancing round like a chicken when he scored against Korea,” he said.
Despite the criticism, Richarlison remains a talented player and has shown his ability in the past. He was a key player for Everton last season, scoring 13 goals in 35 league games, and has also impressed for Brazil at international level. However, he will need to start scoring goals for Tottenham if he wants to silence his critics and justify his price tag.