How Gray is proving a shining light in Tottenham's season of turmoil
That theme continued on Wednesday night in the Champions League, when Gray was superb in Tottenham 's 3–2 win over Atletico Madrid. The victory was Spurs' first since January, although it wasn't enough to overturn their 5–2 deficit from the first leg. Gray was the big positive to cling to ahead of Sunday's gigantic showdown with relegation rivals Nottingham Forest .
"He's playing continually in the right way, in a good way," said Spurs boss Igor Tudor after the game. "It's a mix of quality, physically and mentally, to always make the right choices, be humble, and have the legs to do so. " Credit to Tudor - is he turning around Spurs side who looked lost?
Gray made his 16th European start for Spurs on Wednesday night, with only Steve Perryman making more in the club's history before the age of 21, and it was among his best performances since his £30m transfer from Leeds in 2024. It was an all-round effort Spurs fans have grown used to. The youngster created two chances - including an assist - and won possession back a team-high nine times for Tottenham .
Despite his tender years, Gray has clearly earned Tudor's trust. He is the only player to have started every game for the Croatian, and so far that faith in the youngster is being repaid. The assist for Xavi Simons' goal means Gray has four goal contributions - one goal and three assists - in his last seven appearances for Spurs.
He had registered only one in the previous 24 matches for Tottenham before that run. When he was eventually withdrawn in the 81st minute, the England youth international received a standing ovation from the home supporters. Gray even received a handshake from Atletico Madrid veteran Marcos Llorente as he left the pitch; perhaps a moment of recognition from one central midfielder frequently played out of position to another?