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Right now, Tottenham has a wealth of young fullbacks. Kyle Walker is playing better than ever, Kyle Naughton has filled in ably at left back, while Ezekiel Fryers has provided a young influx of talent at left back. However, an interesting decision surrounds a Spurs right back Adam Smith, currently on loan with Millwall in The Championship.
Smith has played 15 times for The Lions this season, tallying a goal and two assists as the team has risen to 7th place in the table, just outside of the promotion places. However, Smith's loan is subject to end on the 25th of January. Smith had this to say about his choice of club for the rest of the season:
"I'm really enjoying my time at Millwall because I've been playing regularly and playing well, plus the club are doing very well, I couldn't be happier at the moment," Smith told Sky Sports.
"The loan finishes on 25 January at the moment and although Millwall have mentioned about extending it the main decision comes down to what Tottenham want.
"I'd love to stay here until the end of the season and continue playing my football, but that is out of my hands, so I'll just continue enjoying my football and when it comes to that stage I'll be happy to do whatever Spurs want."
The question becomes the best move for Smith. Obviously, maintaining the status quo and giving Smith consistent playing time at Millwall is a good move. The push for the Championship playoffs could give Smith the competitive atmosphere that could continue his development.
However, a different idea may come from the way Kyle Walker was used in the 2010-11 season. Walker had a strong first half of the season on loan with QPR in The Championship. Tottenham however decided to use that loan as a stepping stone, as Walker finished the season starting for Aston Villa in the Premiership. Out of that, Walker was able to come into the 2011-12 season ready to start for Spurs.
Personally, it seems the wisest that with Spurs' depth, they should be patient with Smith's development. Consistent playing time at a winning team seems a safer choice than going for a Premiership loan that may leave Smith languishing on the bench. But what do you think is the best move for Smith's development? Sound off below: