Who is Oliver Skipp? The youngster with the keys to Tottenham’s midfield

Nicholas Hughes

• Updated: 8 Nov 2021 12:17 GMT
• 11 min read

Oliver Skipp has had to bide his time, but he has emerged as a top talent at Tottenham Hotspur and already a first-team midfielder.

After a loan spell with Norwich City where he helped the Canaries win the Championship in 2020-21, Skipp has become a regular in the Spurs midfield.

As well as that, Skipp has taken the next step internationally and is reaching out for England selection after becoming a permanent fixture in the Under 21’s side.

Spurs will be eager to keep Skipp on board for the long-term future, giving him the opportunity to lead the club going forward.

What position does Oliver Skipp play in?

Skipp is a central midfielder, typically operating as a defensive-minded player in the No.6 role.

How good is Oliver Skipp?

From a very young age, Skipp has been identified as a major talent in the Tottenham youth ranks, and that has been backed up by multiple managers.

Mauricio Pochettino first showed his faith in Skipp when the player was 17 years old, taking him on a pre-season tour of the USA where he captured the attention of coaches and teammates alike.

But there are very few people from whom praise means more than Jose Mourinho, and the legendary Portuguese coach waxed lyrical of Skipp while he was at Spurs in 2020.

“I think he’s genuinely Tottenham’s future,” Mourinho said of Skipp at the time.

“He’s one of these players by human quality, by personality, he is one of these kids that I have no doubt he will be an important player Tottenham.

“I see this kid being one day a future captain here by his character, by his personality.”

Those quotes came as Skipp had signed a long-term contract before he spent the season on loan at Norwich. He played every game bar one and was made in the PFA Championship Team of the Season, as voted by his fellow players.

In midfield, he has the skills to operate in a number of roles. He is a sound ball winner, capable of anchoring the midfield and screening the defence, turning over possession for his teams with well-timed tackles or interceptions.

On the ball, his range of passing and composure playing out of the back is an asset for any team he plays in. His ball retention allows effective possession to be transitioned forwards, while he continues to marshal things from deep.

His development has earned him a number of admirers, and with potential to grow he is bound to have a big future in the English game.

Which clubs are interested in Oliver Skipp?

While Tottenham remain staunch in their assertion that Skipp’s immediate and long-term future lies in North London, there are still a couple of teams believed to be interested in his signature.

Norwich were believed to be discussing the possibility of a second loan spell after the success of the initial one, but a deal was not forthcoming.

Recently cashed up Newcastle United are also believed to be keen on bringing Skipp to St. James’ Park as they begin to build their team to challenge in the future.

When does Oliver Skipp’s contract expire?

The aforementioned deal that Skipp signed in 2020 is set to run until June 30 2024. Skipp is believed to be currently earning a figure in the region of £25,000 per week, with negotiations reportedly in the offing for another extension that could see a sizeable wage increase.

How old is Oliver Skipp?

Skipp is 21 years of age, born on September 16 2000.

What is Oliver Skipp’s height?

Skipp stands at around 177cm tall, or five-feet-eight-inches.

What is Oliver Skipp’s weight?

Skipp is believed to weigh around 66kg.

What football boots does Oliver Skipp wear?

Skipp wears Nike football boots, opting for the Nike Tiempo Legend 9 cleats on matchday.

What is Oliver Skipp’s Instagram?

Skipp has 121k followers on Instagram as of November 2021.

Who is Oliver Skipp’s girlfriend?

Skipp is not currently publicly dating anybody.