Winks: I’m not an inspiration to Spurs youngsters yet

Tottenham youngster Harry Winks feels he can’t be considered an inspiration to others in the Spurs academy until he further proves himself in the side.

The 20-year-old midfielder has established himself as a first team player since scoring on his first full appearance for the side against West Ham, and featured in defeats to Monaco and Chelsea afterwards.

However, the academy graduate feels he still has a long way to go until others can look up to him.

“I wouldn’t say I’m an inspiration yet, it’s still early doors for me. Obviously it gives hope to all young players that are coming through at Spurs that there are opportunities there once you’re drafted in and proven yourself, so to speak,” said the midfielder.

“I wouldn’t say I’m really an inspiration, I’d just say I’m someone who’s learning the game and getting opportunities and I’m really thankful for getting those chances.”

Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images

Winks added that he has always been keen to be his own man and has not based his play on any particular player.

“I wouldn’t like to say I model myself on any player. I like to draw inspiration and draw experience and types from every player, midfield players,” he added.

“There are a lot of players that I like to watch and learn from but there’s no certain player I’d say I model my game on because I’m myself, I’m unique. But obviously it’s important to learn from other players as well.”