Gaizka Mendieta has praised Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear’s bright start, but warned fans and pundits not to ruin the young star’s development by comparing him to England captain Harry Kane.
Former Middlesbrough star Mendieta reckons early goals are vital for any young forward finding his feet, but insists expecting a massive goal tally right off the bat is completely unfair.
“Will Lankshear is doing well, it’s a great start for a very young player,” Mendieta said when speaking to CasinoLyze.
“However, is it fair to place so much pressure on him, hoping he’ll be the next Harry Kane or expecting him to score 30 goals in a season?”
Smart business
Mendieta feels Lankshear has already proven to be a smart bit of business, with his early form giving Boro a real lift in their push for the top six.
“It looks a great signing, and starting well is always important for strikers,” Mendieta explained.
“Finding the back of the net early gives them the confidence they need, which in turn helps in the push for the playoffs and promotion.”
High expectations
Ultimately, the Spaniard believes giving the youngster proper support and breathing room will yield far better results than dumping sky-high expectations on his shoulders from day one.
“But let’s go easy on the boy, he needs confidence, love, and patience,” Mendieta added.
“It rarely works when you pile high expectations onto a young player right from the start.
“For Middlesbrough, eighth is an achievable position. It’s great that they have extended the playoff spots because otherwise, it would have been difficult for them to reach the playoffs again after coming so close to promotion, mentally, it’s tough to replicate that.
“In a way, this takes a bit of pressure off them, though that doesn’t change the fact that the league is tough.
“Having said that, making the playoffs is a must for them, and it’s obviously more possible with these extended positions.”
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