Spurs stopper Gomes comes of age

Heurelho Gomes took centre stage for Tottenham this week after a dazzling display against Arsenal, but it could have been so different for the Brazilian keeper.

Gomes was in brilliant form at White Hart Lane as he kept Arsenal at bay almost single handed.

His two saves from Robin van Persie were world class, while his close-range stop from Sol Campbell’s header was breathtaking and earned Spurs a crucial 2-1 victory.

But had it not been for Harry Redknapp sticking by the 29-year-old, he could have been on the Spurs scrap heap.

His form when Redknapp took over was erratic with many fans and pundits calling for Redknapp to draft in an experienced replacement, but the Spurs chief showed faith in Gomes after hearing so many good reports about the former PSV stopper.

The Spurs boss said: “I always knew he had the ability. I spoke to Guus Hiddink and he said he nearly took them to a Champions League final in 2005, he’s that good.”

Gomes has made almost 40 appearances for Spurs this term and his consistent form this campaign has been aided by the close work he has been doing with goalkeeping coach Tony Parks.

Indeed, this work could boost Spurs, and it might see Brazil’s World Cup betting odds shorten even further as they now have three top-class ‘keepers at their disposal.

After a spell adapting to life in the Premier League, Gomes now seems to be at ease in the top flight and looks full of confidence.

Gomes, who was signed by Juande Ramos in the summer of 2008, is now looking like a £7.8 million recruit and he has his sights on a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad.

Brazil are currently second favourites in this year’s World Cup odds and will be hopeful of winning the tournament.