Josh BaileyTalking Tottenham Max Aarons (Norwich) (Reported Fee: £30 million)Aarons is a player who Spurs have been heavily linked with over the last year. However, the last few months, reports have quietened a little in our interest for the highly rated English right-back. That was until the other day. Alasdair Gold reported that Aarons was Spurs’ first choice right back to bring in this summer, ahead of Meunier. Following that report, Footy Insider also claimed that Tottenham were to conclude negotiations with Norwich for his signing once the transfer window re-opens. Right back has been a consistent problematic area since Walker left in 2017. Aurier and Trippier were given the task to fill his place but inconsistency has held themselves and the team back, meaning Aarons is a must for Spurs. His defensive abilities have shone through this season and even though attacking has been a weaker side of his game, you must be sure it will improve with his youth and a greater attacking outlet in front of him, if he was to move to spurs. Levy will try to lower the price but the priority of needing a right back will make the fee a little bit less of an issue (Probability of signing 7/10) Geoffrey Kondogbia (Valencia) (Reported fee: 26 million)As we move closer the transfer window, I’m sure CDM is a position that spurs will be linked too heavily. Players such as Hojbjerg and Soumare have been names thrown round too. But most recently Kondogbia is a player who has drawn Tottenham’s interests. According to Plaza Deportivo the 27 year old is expected to leave Valencia this summer for a Premier League club, with Mourinho keen on the Central African Republic midfielder and Valencia open to offers. CDM is a position that is desperately needed for Spurs. Too many times in a game the defence is left exposed as there is no midfielder who sits deeps and protects it. Averaging 3.6 tackles a game in the Champions League and 2.35 tackles a game in the La Liga, he would be the perfect fit for that role. However, Levy may pursue other routes first, such as Hojbjerg, like he tried to do in the winter. (Probability of signing 6/10) Willian (Chelsea) (Reported fee: Free)After being tantalizingly snatched from their grasp in 2013, Spurs are rekindling their interest in the Brazilian veteran. The 31 year old ran into a contract dispute with Chelsea, after they offered him a 2 year contract instead of 3. TEAMtalk reported earlier this month that Tottenham were set to complete the singing of the Chelsea star, with the winger being enticed by a better deal and the opportunity to work with Mourinho once again. Being a free transfer there is only positives to see in singing Willian. He offers a tremendous amount of Premier League and big game experience, he had a close and successful relationship with Mourinho before, he’s proven he still possesses quality and he adds much needed depth into the squad. This signing is a no brainer and one (due to his relationship with Mourinho) that will most likely happen. (Probability of singing 7/10 Phillipe Coutinho (Barcelona) (Reported fee: Loan)Last summer, a deadline day bid nearly saw Spurs sign Coutinho on loan, but negotiations fell through. A year later Spurs remain extremely interested, with the feeling being mutual. Reports all agree that Coutinho wants a move back to the Premier League, with the Brazilian seeing spurs as a destination to do this. The Mirror reports that this is only enhanced by Mourinho now being at the club and today NicoSchira reported that the club have requested information about the player from his agent. Some of the Bayern Munich Loane’s best days were in the Premier League. He is an incredible player and has the exact same spark as that of Eriksen. Even though we have Lo Celso, a player of Coutinho’s ability is hard to pass and would be a squad changing addition in terms of the quality he brings. However, there are four other Premier League clubs interested in the ex-Liverpool man and questions have to be raised about why negotiations previously broke down and why that won’t happen again? (Probability of signing 6/10 The Verdict:It seems that come the summer, Mourinho will have £120 million to spend. This looks like it will be spent on more defensive players due to our horrific performing at that end of the pitch this season. Though depth is needed at the front end of the pitch that seems set to be approached in the form of older, experienced players who are cheap, and are running out of contract come July or securing deals on loan. Either way, especially in the current climate, there is no definite way of knowing who will be joining N17 but despite other fans scepticism, to me I feel like Mourinho will be backed, just in a Daniel Levy Sort of way.
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Josh Bailey - 15/04/20 - Talking Tottenham. Spurs and transfers. Here are two words that do not go well together. As these years go by and more transfer windows come and go, there is a growing sense of frustration amongst fans towards Levy’s shrewdness and how his failure to back pervious managers and spend money like a big club (mainly Pochettino) has led to their downfall and fall short of the potential once thought of them. But as Mourinho steps into the dugout and a new era dawns upon the football club, there is a renewed sense of hope amongst the fans that maybe this summer transfer window, will be one of expenditure, bringing in names that will show the manager has been backed and elevate the club to a level we all know we are capable of achieving. So, here I am in part 1 of discussing the players we have been most heavily linked too and the likelihood of us seeing them standing on the balcony overlooking the training pitches, with the lilywhite shirt grasped in their hands. Andre Onana (Ajax) (Reported fee: £25 million)![]() The 24 year old Cameroonian international has been a rumoured Tottenham target for the past couple years. More importantly he has also been on Mourinho’s radar for a long time. In 2018 Onana revealed that he “followed him closely.” In recent days L’ Equipe reported that Spurs made preliminary contact with Ajax for the in demand goalkeeper. However, that’s where the problem lies, he is demand. Reports have maintained throughout that Chelsea are the favourites to sign him, with Barcelona and Psg also interested. Despite the club and the managers strong interest in Onana, there are positions on the pitch which we are weaker and therefore decreases the priority of his signing. With clubs like Chelsea needing him more desperately, we may end up losing out to a club who just need him more. Probability of signing (5/10) Thomas Meunier (Psg) (Reported fee: Free)![]() The Psg veteran has been one of recent interest in the last couple of days. Just yesterday L’Equipe reported that Tottenham were in pole position to sign the right back with negotiations between the club and the players representatives intensifying over the past 72 hours. The 28 year old Belgian international has made 128 appearances for Psg and has one 12 trophies across his career. This type of experience in winning and minutes on the pitch would make him a welcome addition to the dressing room, especially at a free, when he is valued at £21.6 million. However, his age and his inconsistent performances at Psg mean there is a split in opinion from fans on whether he is a good addition and with the opportunity to possibly sign Max Aarons, many people, including myself would rather see the latter instead of the former. Probability of signing (6/10 Ruben Dias (Benfica) (Reported fee: £40 million ![]() Along with Onana, Dias is one of the hot properties coming into the summer window, with clubs such as Man City looking at the 22 year old. Tottenham’s defensive struggles have been well documented throughout the campaign, with most of it coming down to individual error in an aging backline and a confusing Sanchez. Brining Dias in would be the perfect solution to these problems. He has impeccable passing and dominates the backline with his physicality, the perfect Mourinho player and one who would settle instantly into the Premier League. However, the fee (once again) is the issue. According to reports, Mourinho will go to Benfica offering £40/45 million but this expected to be way off the mark with his release clause being £80 million and Benfica expecting close to that if they are to let their future superstar go. Probability of signing (5/10) As the January window locks shut, TalkingTottenham analyses the business done by Spurs.
From previous January windows, Spurs have been known to be quite inactive, usually only making 1 signing, but sometimes going with none. However, injuries to Harry Kane and Sissoko as well as the availability of some young talent, Spurs became lured in to the madness of the mid-season market. Gedson Fernandes, the 21 year old Portuguese international, was the first player to be welcomed to N17. He arrived on the basis of an 18 month loan deal from Benfica. Fernandes was a welcomed addition to the Spurs squad, as the player has gone up the ranks each season, seeming to improve with maturity. His ability earned him 2 senior caps for Portugal, a achievement due credit, as they have a very saturated midfield depth. Think Paul Pogba or Dele Alli, Gedson follows in the same footsteps, a energetic box-to-box midfielder, who is very capable with the ball at his feet. His pace and dribbling ability can push the ball from defence to attack, whilst his strength and confidence to throw in a challenge makes him a well rounded asset. In years to come he could become a great signing for Spurs. With a midfielder in, it was time for one to go, and one that was overdue. Christian Eriksen. Eriksen served a crucial role in Tottenham’s success going forward the past 5-6 seasons, and he will be regarded as one of Tottenham’s best. Despite leaving on a sour note, with time, Eriksen will be missed. With Erisken’s departure announced, Tottenham immediately announced the permanent signing of Lo Celso until 2025. The Argentine’s performances over the last 3 games is really starting to demonstrate the type of player Tottenham have on their hands, a dynamic, forward thinking attacking midfielder. Levy paid £23.7M on top of the loan fee of £15M, which appears as a bargain if Lo Celso can keep up his current form. As Jose stated, it was an “easy decision” for the club as Lo Celso was “earning” his contract. Out of no where in this market, reliable sources were reporting that Steven Bergwijn and Tottenham were in talks, and the player was immediately removed from their match-day squad. The story swiftly developed and within a matter of days, Bergwijn was happily in North London. Only Ajax star Ziyech has more assists in the Dutch top league, and the winger has been regarded by many as a very “good player”, including Netherlands teammate Patrick van Annholt. Whilst there were questions over how to pronounce the player’s name. there wasn’t many over the quality he will provide to Tottenham’s attack who is in desperate need of goals. Playing 16 matches this season, he has scored 5 goals and assisted 10, making a contribution nearly every game. Exciting. He has proved himself in the Dutch league, and Spurs are hoping the same will translate into the Premier League. For less than £30M, and a player that attracted interest from Liverpool and Manchester United, Spurs clearly have done well on this deal. Over the days after the Bergwijn deal, transfer stories were flying in and around Spurs, as the club was at the top of media stories. A deal for AC Milan’s Piatek fell through as Spurs couldn’t agree a loan deal but Spurs kept their eyes on Willian Jose and Olivier Giroud. Today, however, Tottenham have missed out on both. Giroud’s deal fell through despite the clubs agreeing a fee because Chelsea couldn’t get a replacement. The fee over Willian Jose was too high for what Levy valued the player at, however the deal seemed to break down over the loan/permanent debate. It’s clear Tottenham were looking at strikers throughout the window however the tough January market, and mid season conditions mean Tottenham will have to do without. With Spurs still in 3 competitions, it will prove a tough challenge to cope without a striker. Giroud or Jose would have been good signings for Spurs but the clubs personal situation limited the ability to secure these signings. Outgoings for Tottenham beside Eriksen included full backs Danny Rose and Kyle Walker Peters. Many U23s were loaned out in the window, like Jack Clarke and Carter Vickers, reducing the depth of the youth squad which was flooded with too many players. The main deadwood on Tottenham’s dressing room has been lifted, hopefully increasing the morale on the squad which, undeniably has been refreshed with some promising young talent. With the likes of Ndombele back from injury and Ryan Sessegnon beginning to start more games, the rebuild is fully underway at Tottenham. Overall, the number 1 priority, a striker, wasn’t added in the window, possibly tarnishing Spurs’ ability to push forward in the Champions League or Fa cup. However, the window can not be a branded a failure, the business done by Levy on Fernandes and Bergwijn was great. Spurs fans will be wishing Bergwijn can transfer his goals and creativity to the Premier League, whilst Son, Lucas and Alli will have to be fully prepared to be leading the line for Spurs. Chelsea and Barcelona also couldn’t obtain a new striker, whilst Manchester United just about got the likes of Ighalo over the line, a far from quality signing. - demonstrating just how hard it was for clubs to purchase a striker. The quality of strikers, besides Cavani, available to Tottenham realistically weren’t of much quality and could have proved a waste of time and money. Levy will, almost definitely, get some stick, as people seem to underestimate the toughness of the January window. however, he in my opinion put in a great effort this January. TalkingTottenhams rating out of 10 on the window: 7.5/10 Daniel Smith TalkingTottenham Daniel Smith: 13/01/20 Mourinho's reign at Spurs is in full swing, having played 13 games, it's time to make some judgements on his start.
A look back: 13 games, 6 wins and 5 loses with 2 being drawn. A very mixed start to life in North London for the manager. Initially, it looked promising with 3 wins in 3, including a champions league victory which secured the place in the knock out stages. However, clear weaknesses were demonstrated in them 3 games: defensive issues. Any different to Pochettino? Sort of. Under Mauricio, Tottenham dropped points against Everton, Watford, Brighton and got knocked out embarrassingly against Colchester. And who can forget leaking 7 goals to Bayern Munich. Oh wait, me. However based on actually taking points, Jose's appointment has impacted Spurs positively, and it is now a clear player issue within the squad - mainly defensive. Before Jose was appointed, Mauricio's Tottenham only manged to pick up 6 points out of a possible 18, but Jose has taken this forward beating Bournemouth, West Ham, Burnley and Brighton... The quality of team Pochettino appeared to struggle against. However questions started to arise over the Christmas period. Jose didn't provide many festive treats, with his last game being won on 26 December last year. Since then Spurs have taken on Norwich, Southampton, Middlesbrough and Liverpool... putting in below par performances. It's clear time is needed, and its not a issue that Mourinho can fix instantly. But how can he do it? Here is TalkingTottenham's 2 main suggestions: 1) Squad Clear out: I've said it before and I'll say it again, Spurs are carrying too much deadwood. The likes of Christian Eriksen and Jan Vertonghen this season have been no where near usual expectation. The attitude of Eriksen has become so poor, he got booed by sections of Spurs fans against Liverpool; its clear he wants to leave. Negotiations over a deal with Inter Milan have been circulating to the delight of many Spurs fans who feel his time is up. His negative attitude can have a knock on effect on the rest of the dressing room so its time to move on. 2) Owners: Mr Daniel Levy. Every time I mention this to a fellow Spurs fan, the words 'stadium' and 'training ground' prop up. Enough is enough. Since he took seat as chairman as our club, almost 20 years ago he has had 1 trophy, a mere league cup in 2008. Since then... nothing. For a club with the history and status of Tottenham Hotspur, this is miles from acceptable. No denying what he has done business wise in transfer value, and building our wonderful stadium deserves high credit, but there is no trophies to show for that. In a summer when we lost out to Liverpool in a Champions league final, it was time to really build on that, and take the club to the next level. But issues in the squad weren't dealt with... and that spirals forward to where we are today. Lacking depth and carrying deadwood. A January window which was already important for Tottenham, has recently become pivotal on saving the season. Injuries to Harry Kane, Ndombele and Sissoko has pushed Mr. Levy into the market for a DM and a striker. This though, has worsened the issue for Tottenham who planned in this window to strengthen the obvious right and left back issue, which, has now appeared to have gone down 2-3 spots on the shopping list. With so much disruption across the field for Spurs, which has only deteriorated over time, it is extremely hard, and harsh, to judge to work of Mourinho yet. However, the January window is pushed aside for now as Spurs must turn attention to tomorrow night's FA Cup clash with Middleborough. Come On You Spurs TalkingTottenham - Daniel A touching opener to Jose Mourinho's first Tottenham press conference, as the head coach prepares for his first game against West Ham.
If you told me the next time I write an article for this blog, Jose Mourinho would have replaced Pochettino in under 12 hours... I would've laughed, and then laughed again. But it happened, Pochettino was "sacked" and the rest is now history after 5 and a half years in charge. Pochettino granted Spurs some of their best memories in recent years, gaining incredible results against Real Madrid, Dortmund, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, City and of course rivals Arsenal (there is too many to count). The Argentinian also flourished in bringing new players to the spotlight including Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Christian Eriksen, Harry Winks and Moussa Sissoko. There is so much Mauricio done for the club, but majority feel he took us as far as possible once we reached the Champions League final. After consistent poor form in the end of last season and failing to get going this season, Pochettino finds himself out of the job. I wish him the best of luck, and i'll always be checking to see what's happening. He's magic you know. 12 hours later and Spurs had a new man to back, Mourinho. Was this the correct appointment? Absolutely! Spurs have been calling out for a statement signing, and this is it. The man is an absolute born winner, winning the premier league 3 times, and champions league twice. He has 20 major honours to his name. Special? Indeed. Since Jose has picked up his first major trophy 16 years ago, Spurs have only managed 1, against Chelsea in the 2007/08 season. By employing one of the most decorated managers available in world football, his impact is sure to not be small. With the likes of Dele Alli and Harry Kane's form recently dipping compared to recent seasons, having Jose behind them on the touchline will only start meaning 1 thing. Mourinho even stated today in his press conference that Spurs "can win" the Premier League next year. This fresh energy and belief is exactly what Tottenham need, someone who comes in with the objective for silverware and states it right away. Rival fans have often been saying its a ridiculous appointment because the board won't back him like he is used to. Jose knows this, and there is no way he would be here now if Daniel Levy didn't promise to add to the squad in the next windows, so I wouldn't be surprised if you see Tottenham having some more incomings in January to help Jose in his mission. It's also been widely reported that Spurs could bring in a new Sporting director to work with Levy and Jose on transfers, and this man is Luis Campos. One of the best in the world for discovering young talent. He needs no explanation but his record is astonishing, discovering the likes of Mbappe, Bernardo Silva, Mendy, Nicolas Pepe, Martial, James Rodriquez and Fabinho. If Tottenham can get this man in, there could be some real talent coming through the door. Its a new era for Tottenham Hotspur FC. To Dare Is To Do. Josh Bailey: It’s hard to find words to describe the performances witnessed since my last article; heartless, clueless, abysmal. It’s been weeks, maybe months since our last 3 star performance let alone 5 and each week we expect this horror show to end, for the players to dig deep, grind out the three points and kick on, but we have only ever been left disappointed. This week we return to the beloved N17 against Sheffield United. At the start of the season this would be an expected 3 points but even on paper, with Sheffield lying in 6th on 16 points, we have a tough task ahead of us and none of us would be surprised ifwe don’t come away with the three points.
Last Time Out Red Star Belgrade. A sarcophagus of intimidating, hostile noise which wins football games, claiming scalps such as Liverpool’s last year. In order to return home in one piece you need weather the explosive start, passing your way into the game, silencing the crowd with the gradual chances you create and the possible goals you score. On Wednesday we did this. Yes critics may say Red Star wasn’t at their best but to be as dominant in our ball control and as confident in our passing as we were, is a massive credit to our team’s mental resolve at such a hard place to visit. Our passing, for the first time in a long time, was slick and decisive. Continuously we were able to locate that one pass which left a player with time and space. The hard running of many players off the ball created opportunities and with clinical shooting, we found ourselves 4-0 up, goals coming from Lo Celso, Son x2 and Eriksen. These 3 points were by no means season changing, with significant work still needing to be done when it comes to defence. A few times sloppy passing left Gazzaniga staring down a barrel and with a slice of composure from Red Star,the score could have been different. However, you have to ride your luck in turbulent times like these and what this win does do is lay foundation for us to push on and produce performances, moving us back to the level we have come to expect Game at Hand In recent years we would get the big club treatment, teams sitting back, absorbing pressure and hopefully being disciplined enough to steal a point or three via the counter attack. However, as we saw at Everton in the weekend, teams are no longer scared of us. Our recent subpar performances giving them confidence to have their own attacking threat, believing they can expose our defensive weaknesses, while not having enough to significantly damage them through our own attack. Sheffield United will be the epitome of this. They’ve already deservedly earned points with a win against Arsenal and a point against Chelsea, while agonisingly losing to Liverpool. The Beauty of Chris Wilder’s style of play, is the ability to transition defence into attack. He plays with a 3-4-2-1, with this he can offer an offensive threat via the Wing Backs but also defensive composure by switching to a 3-5-2. By doing this, the Wing backs act as the two extra defenders while still offering an offensive threat when going forward. This is why they have the best defence in the league, conceding 8 goals. Scoring goals is their weaknesses, finding the net 12 times. But it’s enough to give them a chance of winning games and is why they find themselves 6th in the table. How does this affect Spurs? 3 at the back and 5 in the midfield will create congestion in the middle so space will be minimal. The wing backs will reduce the space even further out wide so Spurs will have to be patient with slick precise passing that has intent. If the Lilywhites are clinical, then we should experience some joy come Saturday evening. Starting X11 Pochettino has not named the same starting line up in consecutive matches for 93 games. This is an absurd stat and really reflects our inconsistent performances. With this in mind, it’s hard to predict the team v Sheffield United. The dominant nature of the performance v Red Star Belgrade would naturally lead us to want the same line up but we still had problems defensively. Foyth was secure, putting in a reassuring performance at Right back, so he should keep his place but only just returning to fitness, Poch may not feel ready to start him in consecutive games. At centre back,Sanchez and Alderweirld ought to return as partners offering a bit more security in recent games. Left Back would most likely be Davies, orientating in order keep the side fresh. Midfield, in my opinion, lacks the defensive capability in order to protect the defence. It offers a lot going forward but will consistently make a silly pass or leave us susceptible to the counter. It seems that Sissoko and N’dombele is the best option but don’t be surprised to see winks exchanged in to keep players rested. Rightfully Eriksen didn’t start, Lo Celso taking his place. His stats were phenomenal for a debut game, dominating the midfield with smart balls and creative passes which was strung together by his work rate on and off the ball. It’s why we scored 4 goals, a feat that hasn’t been achieved in 92 games from a side visiting Belgrade. We all desire the same team but don’t be surprised if Eriksen has his place gifted back to him in order to protect to Argentinian from re-aggravating his injury. Josh Bailey (Match preview analyst for Talking Tottenham) It' safe to say the last 10 days hasn't been bathed in glory for us spurs fans. Last Wednesday we dropped 3 points after succumbing a 2 goal lead at a grounds where goals conceded are rare. Then, in a 3 day turn around, we faced Leicester. Once again we faltered when leading, however this time the outcome was much worse. After a controversial VAR call, the pendulum swung Leicesters way and a magnificent Madison strike meant 3 points once again slipped away. But non of these were as slow, as careless and as humiliating as the defeat to league two Colchester. Not much words were needed for this one but unfortunately I have to go into further detail in a few short moments. But now we march on to Southampton, the majority of us aern't optimistic but we have a good record against the saints and hopefully we can use this to guide us to a second consecutive win at home.
Last time out Tuesday night.... to put it lightly it was the worst performance we have witnessed while under potchettinos reign. It was unacceptable. To lose to a mid table league two side should never be plausible but due to our lack of ideas, our lack it tempo, it happaned. Throughout the game, Colchester offered nothing. They rarely broke out of their half and when they did it was snuffed out. Most notable was Tangana, putting in an assured display to add to his impressive pre-season. Further up the pitch is where the game was lost. There was a lack of urgency and when we reached colchester's box, no one seemed to posses the ability to break them down. Yes, you heard me correctly, Premier League players couldn't break down a League two defense. Giving Colchester praise or not, that just shouldn't happen. The lack of urgency simply stemmed from players having a lack of match fitness. 6 of whom who started on Tuesday were returning from injury with an additional 3, being youngsters. And as for Eriksen? Well I think it his attitude standing in the way of his performance's. Today's game There's going to be re-occurance happening over the next few weeks. Every game will become a crucial one. After this worrying string of results, it's pivotal poch delivers because if he doesn't, more people will loose faith and more people will be quick to question his future. The next big game? It's against Southampton at home. Our last result against them was another case of us leading one nil away from home and eventually capitulating to gift them a to 2-1 victory. However, the overall record against Southampton is more promising. Since their return to the top flight in 2012, spurs have one 10 their last 14 against the saints, drawing 2 and losing 2. You have to say with that record, this game couldn't come soon enough. And when considering crystal palace's first half mauling last time we set to the field at home, the pendulum seems to swing from pesistmism to optimism for us spurs fans. Players to watch out for?? Harry kane. Last weeks' out of this world finish, could show he's heading into his game changing form again but only if he gets supply. Although he may not even need that if his record, against the seaside time, is anything to go by. He has bagged 7 goals in his last 10 games against today's opposition, if anyone is to change our form, as usual, it's Harry Kane. Starting 11 Personally, in this segment of the article, I'm going to go for the side I would like to see play, not who I think will play. I think Lloris should keep his place in the squad, people are quick to criticise the French Man, but on numerous times this season he has saved us from being on the end of much harsher results. Aurier should keep his place as well as Danny Rose. I would like to see Tangana given a chance. Our two CB of Toby and Jan just havent gelled this season and I think the young prospect should be given a rewarded for his performances. I don't think potch would do this but he says he wants to freshen up his youth and it's the perfect way to do it. Midfield is a dilemma. Each individual deserves to be in that squad. Each time they all put in good performances. But for me how they play together sometimes isn't convincing. Time after time they will leave the defence exposed, with no one sitting back waiting to nullify the oppositions attack. We need a player like the Wanyama of 16/17, where he would sit back while dembele pushed foward and maybe skipp could be that man. He's a defensive midfielder by trade and with time could develop into the player we need. When discussing the fowards we naturally come to the Eriksen dilemma. To be plain and simple he just isn't performing. The heart just seems to be gone from his performance and that's affecting us. The issue that has risen is when he doesn't play we look clueless. So it now means spurs have been prepared into the problem of, if we do start him he hasn't go that desire but when we don't we struggle to find the net. This could be a problem that only the January transfer window can solve.
By Josh Bailey (Editor and match preview analyst for Talking Tottenham) Scintillating, Superior, Solid. They are just a few words to describe Tottenham’s performance against Palace. It was the perfect way to respond to criticism of recent weeks and the way to build on a spell bounding performance like that?Well that’s win the next game and that game is Champions League tie of Olympiakos on Wednesday.
Last Time Out As football fans, the game we witnessed on Saturday are ones we treasure. They are the type of game where you just sit smiling because you know the performance was perfect from start to finish. As soon as the first whistle sounded, we played with the high intensity which has been lacking since the start of the premier league campaign, with our attackers pouncing, hunting for a mistake and that mistake was caught on the 10th minute Son was the man to get himself on the score sheet and throughout the game he continued to be a nascence, moving in and around the defenders, even grabbing himself a second with a sumptuous volley which was supplied by Aurier. He was another man who had a faultless game, enjoying the space handed to him by the opposition and before son grabbed his second, he was the architect of the Van Aanholtown goal which doubled spurs’ lead. Then after the son goal, lamela got in on the action after Harry Kane played a wicked ball across the face of the goal, taking two defenders out of the game in the process, finding an unmarked Chico, who made it four. That was all for the first half and in the second we decided to slow the game down. Asmart move with Wednesday’s clash looming over the horizon. The most impressive thing about the game was the fluidity we possessed. Time after time starting the back, we were able to pass the ball with pace and precision, moving our attack up the field. Yes there could be questions over palace’s defending. Mainly over the coverage they had on the right and the fact they didn’t drop deeper, allowing the forwards to move freely and giving our midfielders time to create opportunities. But we should take pride and confidence in Saturday’s game, usingthis get a string of results together. Tactics? This is going to be a game of striking contrast. For one it’sthe Champions League, the atmosphere is completely different, the teams are of a new variety and the occasion seems to be one of higher importance. It’s hard to talk about Wednesday without mentioning the glorious run of last year. It’s a period of time we shall all never forget. It was crammed with extreme highs and extreme lows but peppered in performances which included determination and heart, a major factor in our run to the final. Some people question whether the results earned in last year’s competition just papered over the growing cracks but for me they showed everyone what we are capable of when playing at our 100 percent best. As for the game in hand it going to be tough, very tough. They’ll play with an aggression, supported by a very hostile environment, which will only add to the fire they will try to create. It’s typical of the Greek and Turkish teams and Spurs will need to prepare for it, adjusting to the occasion when in the game. In addition, the Greek champions have won 6 of their last 6, faultless form which means they are playing at their best. However, their home record against English teams is encouraging. They have 6 victories, 4 defeats and 3 draws in 13 matches, indicating they do normally win but equally they have 4 defeats to their name, highlighting that if you go there with the belief that you will win, rising above their atmosphere and aggression, then you can leave the Greek capital with all 3 points. Players who are key? Moura and Kane. Moura always seems to rise to the occasion and if started he will quite easily cause an issue for everyone on the pitch. Most Significantly his nimbleness that will frustrate the opposition, as if there’s space, he WILL find it. Kane? Well that’s just because of his record in Europe. He has 24 goals in all European competitions, most likely scoring more if he hadn’t been injured from the Quarter Finals up until the final. Yes, he isn’t in the greatest club form of his life but the quality of volume in which he score his goals means he is a man to watch out for come Wednesday. Starting XI Expect changes. Now that’s not to say he will but with the amount of games coming up in recent weeks, he could look to manage each players game time in order to maintain the right level of fitness. This in the long term could be the correct choice, but as football fans we want results now and with the performance we delivered at the weekend, why on earth would he want to change. It’s clearly a side that has the winning formul to deliver results and consistency, so keep the squad the same!! At the time of writing, the news has come in that Aurier and Rose have not travelled with the squad. This naturally leads us to assume that it should be Walker-Peters and Sessenong. However, he is suffering from discomfort in his hamstring. So the honour of playing left back shall fall to Davies. Many people seem to slate the Welshman but whenever he plays he always seems to put in a satisfying performance. Not “set the world on fire”, but not “don’t let him see the day of light again”. He always poses an attacking threat, never seeming too out of his depth in the defensive pool of things. Midfield is harder to say. It was Winks and Sissoko in the last game, with N’dombele coming on with 20 minutes remaining. All three deserve to start but when they did so in the first two games of the season, it never really seemed to function. So instead Poch could decide to rest one of the starting two and bring in Tanguy or just as likely, start the midfield two, easing the number 27 back to game playing health. Now for the top side of the pitch. In my opinion that also doesn’t need changing. It’s no issue if Moura comes in for Lamela as he can offer just as much of a threat, if not more than his South American Counterpart. But Lamela has had a head turning start to the season, scoring two and assisting one. This is solid form for a man who isn’t the key player in this attack. And so far, from those statistics, he is doing the job he is being asked. Be an attacking threat. This means he should deservedly be in the team that starts at the Karaiskakis Stadium but as Poch just said in his most recent interview, he is going to be “creative”. My Prediction In the last game my prediction was the polar opposite of how the game played out. Now that was to my pleasure and I hope that this game ends in similar fashion. And if we can get ourselves an early goal, seizing the initiative, trying to score the second goal then we could win in a triumphant way. But in a different reality. If we score the second goal, try to hold possession, calming the game down. Well the momentum swing towards Olympiakos and before we know it, the game is level and we struggle to win back that foot hold back in the game By Josh Bailey (Editor and match preview analyst for Talking Tottenham) 4 games into the brand new Premier League season and how have Spurs faired? The Answer is far, far, far from their best. Poor performance after poor performance, strung together by a shaky defence, wrapped in a lacklustre midfield and perfectly tied together by an unimaginative attack. The reason for this? Look no further than Christian Eriksen. It has been highly documented that he wanted a move away from the club and this has led to the squad becoming unsettled (the re-occurring theme of Potchettino’s press conferences). For this reason there has been an air of uncertainty and confusion looming around the club but the game against palace signals the end of this. The European Transfer window has come to a close, Potch knows his squad and as he said a couple of days in advance of the closure, the season starts NOW.
Last Time Out The last game against the team we shall not name, was an improvement. The Front 4 seemed to be cured of the frustration that haunted them against Newcastle due two first half goals by Erisken and Kane. Even though spurs were leading by two, the defence never seemed to be comfortable and Arsenal constantly seemed to have the ability to break through our back line. This was partly down to the situation at RB. Davinson Sanchez never really had the answer to the injury plagued issues at full back, being thoroughly breached on each occasion he was asked to defend. This all built up to the home team scoring just before the break, a pivotal moment in the match, as the momentum was all placed on the gunners. After continuous bombardment on our goal, they equalised via Aubamayang and apart from Harry Kane hitting the bar in a sizzling shot and a hopeful penalty call following a clumsy Sokraits’ challenge, we rarely threatened. A disappointing outcome compared to the promising start made. The result meant we have only registered one win from our opening 4 games, leaving predominant question at nearly every area of the football club. Tactics? Expect a cagey game. 7 of the last 10 games between the two teams have ended 1-0 with palace tending to sit back, encouraging Tottenham to break them down and normally having the ability to do so, winning 8 of the last 10 games in all competitions. Most notable was the 2-0 win last time out. This was the grand opening of the cathedral like stadium that we call home. In this game Son and Eriksen scored but even with the colossal occasion, the away side made hard work of it and spurs will be very wary to this fact. Where the game can be won and lost? Look no further than Son. His record against Palace is one of fair respectability, especially at home. He has scored in all of our last three home games against the Eagles, all in three separate stadiums. This is a promising record and coupled with his acceleration and pace, expect son to be trying to run in between the lines and creating space for Harry Kane, against a defence that has a combined age of 29.7 These are all promising signs for spurs to get back to winning ways at N17 but in games where teams have sat back, encouraging pressure, we have really lacked the ability to complete the task of breaking them down. Take Aston Villa and Newcastle for example. Both games at home, against sides who were desperate to clutch at least a point. Spurs on both occasions looked to go through the middle, resulting in a starvation of ideas on how to get ball past the oppositions’ defenders. And when put in this situation of persistent attacking, the defence seems to switch off, conceding sloppy goals which could have been avoided with just a pinch more concentration. The problem staring down on us at the weekend? Well that’s palace’s counter attacking abilities. They thrive when sitting back due to their clean attack which is good at transitioning the play, finding the killer pass and clinically finishing it off. This was evident against Man Utd. Roy Hodgson men ended the game with 29% possession and just 3 shots… they scored two goals in that game and conceded one. Yes we are on a different levels to the Red Devils but this is evidence of what can happen if our attack isn’t clinical and our defence not switched on. Though be mindful. The lilywhites didn’t start Eriksen in both the games mentioned and couple this with the fact the transfer window is now closed, the squad “should” be gradually getting settled so hopefully these factors can help us find that high tempo, beautifully flowing football, which most teams find hard to comprehend with when at our one hundred percent best. Starting X11? I’m writing these a few hours shy of the breaking news that the Lo Celso will not be available till the end of October. This injury was sustained on international duty and is located in the hip. This is a ginormous blow. His presence adds another dimension to squad. Against Palace he probably wouldn’t have started but if we were struggling to break them down, he could have been called upon to add that little bit of creativity, in order to push us over the line. In the games to come he adds depth. The Introduction of the Champions League and Caraboa Cup means the games start to clog up and a player like Lo Celso is that someone we missed last season. A player who can step up, adding quality when a few key players are resting. This, is a big! Big! Blow. However we do have the man who has been taken so fondly to our hearts. Tanguy N’dombele. He’s missed the last 2 games with a thigh injury, although Saturday should mark his return. He’s been an instant hit with the Contingent at White Hart Lane, this being down to his quality. He cleans up the ball deep down the field and carries it forward, transitioning defence into attack with his vision and ball carrying skills. He has been desperately missed and will be a crucial player come the weekend As for the rest of the squad. Well Lloris is nailed on in goal. KWP should be back from injury to fill in the void at right back and Rose, Kane, Son, Eriksen will most likely resume to their places on the team sheet. But as for the Centre-backs, the Midfield and the other Attacker, that could be anyone. Alli could make his first start of the season, being the man behind Kane and Son but then equally Potch could prefer that place to fall to Lamela or Moura. Moving on to the midfield, there are question marks which remain. The options of N’dombele, Sissoko and Winks, create the most difficult of conundrums. N’dombele and Winks does seem the more efficient option but it seems harsh on Sissoko with his recent performance. Finally there’s the defence and that’s as hard to predict as it was for Paulinho to put in a decent performance. The re-introduction of Jan into the back four two weekends ago and the return of KWP, means that we could see any of our main three take to the field on Saturday. But whoever it is, just hope they create a partnership to keep a clean sheet as that could be the difference between a win and a draw. My Prediction As for my prediction well I think it will be a journey back to winning ways. I say a journey as it will be tough. I expect the defence to have a shaky moment here and there and maybe even concede a goal but Eriksen 2.0 will be the difference and with son and kane only going to get better as each game goes on, we will be a bit closer to being back to our normal selves. |
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