Will Lankshear has notched his ninth goal in 12 games for Middlesbrough, heading in a cross to secure a 1-0 victory against Wolves on Saturday. This performance has made Lankshear an instant hit at Riverside Stadium, while causing lament among Tottenham Hotspur supporters.
Lankshear moved to Middlesbrough from Spurs in the summer on a five-year contract. The deal was for an initial fee of approximately £10m, with an additional £10m in add-ons based on various clauses. Since his transfer, Lankshear has scored as many goals in all competitions as Spurs' combined team.
Tottenham Hotspur, despite drawing with Manchester United, remain in the Premier League relegation zone. Meanwhile, Middlesbrough currently sit in the Championship's automatic promotion places. Ali Speechly, co-chair of the Women of the Lane supporters' group, stated that many fans are questioning why Lankshear was sold, suggesting it was likely due to money.
Former Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson commented that young players not getting first-team football should seek opportunities elsewhere. Tottenham does not have an immediate buy-back clause for Lankshear next summer. However, they do have the right to be notified of and match any future accepted bid Middlesbrough receives, and will get 20% of any profit from a future sale.