How much did you watch him in the U20 WC? Because I simply do not recognise the player you are describing from the one that played such a big part in helping England win that tournament. You say the youth system counts for nought, but I beg to differ, because he showed in that tournament the very qualities you are suggesting he does not possess, ie he totally put his stamp on things and was the very opposite of passive and anonymous.
My argument is that he has shown all the basic qualities you say are essential, he just needs more time to grow into the role at a higher level. I will concede he may never get there but the basic ingredients are all present in abundance so it is just a matter of waiting to see how far he progresses in the next couple of seasons or so.
Remember practically everyone on here was convinced Kane would fall short of being a top striker despite impressing at youth and youth international level. The magnificent Chrissie Waddle did not start to blossom until his mid-twenties and got mercilessly pilloried by Tottenham fans in his first season with us.
As it happens I didnt watch any of the U20 WC, and Ill hold my hands up to never watching Onomah in youth football.
My experience of him is only what he has shown around the first team, where it really counts.
Once again, Im with Billy. The youth system is an indicator of potential, not the finished player. It earns a player a chance at the next level up, no more.
I understand he looked/looks like a real player at that level - but I have to reiterate - unless he can translate that into first team performances it really doesnt count for anything.
Your argument, middle paragraph - I dont contest at all. As I understand it he does have the ability. And from what Ive seen in the first team I agree, its obvious he has class. It absolutely is a matter of seeing if he can progress and start to impress himself on the first team.
I have at no point written him off. Only stated what I have seen, which is a player I dont think will make it. If he comes back from Villa having grown as a player, ala Rose, Walker and others, I will be absolutely delighted.
The real question is, how long does Pochettino see as him having to prove himself? He has been around the first team the whole time Poch has been here, and never made the step. And he has had chances to do so. Personally, I thought this loan was something of a last chance saloon, but of course only time will tell on that one.