Former Tottenham Tim Sherwood has long been known for his bold statements and his latest one sees him link Middlesbrough star Adama Traore to runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City. 

The former Barcelona winger has enjoyed a fine run of form since Tony Pulis was appointed at the Riverside Stadium and Sherwood believes that would see him fit right in under Pep Guardiola.

That might surprise a few fans - Traore is still very raw and hasn't even performed over the course of a full season yet yet - but Sherwood managed him at Aston Villa and, as ever, had the courage of his convictions as he previewed Boro's game with Leeds United tomorrow night for Sky Sports.

He said: "He could go and play for Manchester City tomorrow. Not Manchester United as he's not necessarily a Jose Mourinho player, but he could be a Pep Guardiola player and play free and loose.

"He could probably set the world alight. He has got those qualities. He is eye-catching and he gets people on the edge of their seats.

The Verdict

I am a huge fan of Traore but this is too far from Sherwood.

He has talent for sure but he needs to prove it over a longer period of time and at a higher level before he can even consider returning to the top table of European football.

This is typical Sherwood hyperbole.

What are your thoughts on Traore? Let us know in the comments below...