‘He’s so good’: Liam Delap says Tottenham have a youngster in their ranks who’s got ‘so much potential’
Tottenham’s £30 million investment in Archie Gray has already begun paying dividends, with the teenage sensation making an immediate impact during his debut season in North London.
The 18-year-old midfielder, poached from Leeds United last summer, has demonstrated remarkable versatility and composure beyond his years, earning plaudits from teammates and opponents alike.
Gray’s seamless adaptation to Premier League football caught many by surprise, particularly when pressed into emergency defensive service during Tottenham’s injury crisis.
His ability to slot into central defense without compromising the team’s tactical structure speaks volumes about his football intelligence – a quality that hasn’t gone unnoticed by England U21 colleague Liam Delap.
The Ipswich Town striker, recently linked with a move to Tottenham himself, singled out Gray during an appearance on Sky Sports’ Sticker Book show when discussing the most promising young talents he’s encountered. “Archie’s still so young but has so much potential,” Delap remarked.
“I’ve played against him a few times this season and he’s just so good.” While Delap ultimately chose Jude Bellingham as his top pick from their age group – hardly a slight given the Real Madrid star’s phenomenal achievements – his comments underscore Gray’s rapidly growing reputation.
The teenager’s burgeoning credentials received further validation when Goal.com included him at number 13 in their prestigious NxGn 2025 list, which ranks the world’s elite teenage talents.
Gray finds himself in esteemed company alongside fellow Tottenham prospects like Luka Vuskovic, Mikey Moore, and Lucas Bergvall, as well as South Korean wonderkid Yang Min-Hyeok.
What makes Gray’s debut campaign particularly impressive is how he’s balanced defensive responsibility with creative flair. Unlike many young players who specialize early, Gray has shown the tactical flexibility to excel in multiple roles – a trait reminiscent of Bellingham’s own developmental path.
His technical foundation, honed at Leeds’ renowned academy, combines with a physical presence that belies his age, allowing him to compete against seasoned Premier League opponents.
Tottenham’s decision to integrate Gray immediately rather than loan him out appears increasingly prescient. While most teenagers making a £30 million move would face immense pressure, Gray has handled expectations with the maturity of a veteran.
His performances suggest Spurs may have secured one of English football’s most complete young midfielders, one capable of anchoring their team for the next decade.
As Gray continues his development under Ange Postecoglou’s guidance, comparisons with Bellingham’s trajectory seem inevitable. Both share that rare combination of physical dominance, technical quality, and leadership potential that separates good prospects from generational talents.
While Gray still has considerable ground to cover to reach those heights, his first season in lilywhite confirms he’s on the right path – and that Tottenham’s faith in his potential was well-placed.
With England’s youth setup continuing to produce exceptional talents like Gray, the national team’s future appears in capable hands. For Tottenham supporters, witnessing their young star’s ascent provides excitement for what’s to come – both in the season’s crucial finale and the promising years ahead.
Gray’s story serves as a reminder that while established superstars dominate headlines, the most compelling narratives often come from those just beginning their journeys.