The double took his tally to four goals in six appearances for Tottenham, but perhaps even more impressive has been Van der Vaart’s general performances which have really caught the eye in an ever improving Tottenham side.
What has made Van der Vaart’s performances so good has been his application as well as his ability. A big money signing from Real Madrid was always going to have technique and class, but few would have expected the Dutchman to display such drive and commitment.
At times this has been foolish, most namely Van der Vaart’s needless red card in Tottenham’s Champions League victory over FC Twente. But generally I think Van der Vaart has been nothing but a revelation since his arrival.
I think he needed to feel loved. I know that is a cliché saying in football, but it really is true. In Madrid you feel that Van der Vaart wasn’t able to shine bright amongst the vast amount of stars. In North London, he is the key man for Tottenham, and is relishing the responsibility that the role brings.
I have no doubt that Van der Vaart will continue to build on his stunning start to life in England. Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp admits that he has to build a formation around the Dutchman after been concerned about the openness of his side against Villa. He said: “I felt, first half, we were open, too open, with two up and him floating around where he wanted to play.
“Second half, we changed it and I stuck him in behind one striker. He’s always looking to get on the ball and he has that knack of scoring goals.”
For me those comments only echo the growing importance of Van der Vaart, and if he can continue his stunning form, what a snip at £8 million he could prove to be.
