Tottenham Hotspur youngster Will Lankshear has enjoyed a standout season on loan at Oxford United, emerging as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise difficult campaign.
The 20-year-old joined the U’s last summer and quickly became a key figure as Matt Bloomfield’s side battled to stay afloat. Although Oxford ultimately dropped back into League One, Lankshear’s impact ensured their fight remained competitive far longer than expected.
He finished the season as the club’s top scorer with 12 goals, comfortably ahead of Cameron Brannagan, who managed six. His consistent output and work rate made him a focal point in a struggling team.
A Breakthrough Season
Following Oxford’s rise to the Championship in 2024, they managed to hold their own for two seasons. During that time, Lankshear developed into a crucial attacking presence, leading the line with maturity beyond his years.
Across the 2025/26 campaign, he delivered impressive numbers—combining sharp finishing with strong hold-up play and physicality in duels. His performances didn’t go unnoticed either.
Bloomfield praised the young striker’s mentality and dedication, highlighting his relentless work ethic and focus on improving his game. He also suggested that, if Lankshear maintains his trajectory, he has the potential to reach the very top.
The forward has already had a glimpse of elite football, scoring his first Spurs goal in a Europa League clash against Galatasaray.
Time for a First-Team Role?
With Roberto De Zerbi preparing for a crucial summer rebuild, Lankshear has made a strong case for inclusion in the senior squad.
He is among several young players returning from loan spells, alongside talents like Mikey Moore and Luka Vušković. However, Lankshear’s pathway appears clearer given his output and the current state of Tottenham’s attack.
Spurs have endured a difficult season and remain locked in a relegation battle. Whether they stay in the Premier League or drop down, Lankshear’s role next season feels increasingly inevitable.
If the club were to go down, he would be a natural candidate to lead the line. But even if survival is secured, integrating him into the first team—initially as a rotational option—seems like a logical next step.
As Tottenham look to rebuild, Lankshear represents a promising piece of a younger core ready to step up and reshape the club’s future.
