Today’s edition looks at how the new look and resurgent Tottenham Hotspur will look to stake a huge claim back in the Top 6 – or perhaps, even more. The highlight of the club in recent times has been the unveiling of a brand new documentary by Amazon under the “All Or Nothing” series, which covers the 2019/20 season and the highs and lows of it. One particular segment from the initial episodes which will also prove to be influential in the upcoming season was the hiring of Jose Mourinho as manager. So what can the ever so mysterious Spurs come up with the goods this time?
Transfer activity
Daniel Levy was probably impressed enough with the progress made by the Portuguese gaffer, so much so the North London club has decided to invest by getting 3 signings so far – Giovanni Lo Celso, Matt Doherty and Pierre Hojberg, who are all expected to challenge for first-team spots and if good enough, might even start featuring consistently. Spurs are also looking at Metz striker Habib Diallo after rumours for Callum Wilson of Bournemouth were played down. They may also look to sign Will Hughes from Watford to further strengthen the midfield department.
Strength
The true positive is the record under Mourinho itself and signs that the players are responding to the demands of his tactics and system. Since the “Special One” was hired, Tottenham have won a total of 12 from 24 Premier League with a total of 41 points, only bettered by Liverpool, Man City and Man United. Another positive is that Spurs look to play on the counter which works well most of the time in the Premier League and they have the players to execute it as well.
Weakness
Surprisingly, Mourinho has a more cherished currency in reducing goals conceded and clean sheets but that has not been the case. The defence has appeared leaky on occasions and seems to concede silly goals where errors could have been avoided, perhaps a reason why they made a move for Doherty as well. Another concern for Spurs seems to be the attacking intent that has lacked any plans when teams tend to sit back against them. Bar players such as Son, Kane and Alli there is no one significant who could come off the bench and create much to give the team victory.
Key players
There is no secret that mercurial striker Harry Kane will look to be the focal point of Spurs’ chances of pushing for Champions’ League qualification. Despite his injury, he managed 10 goals in the last season and was the top scorer. Another player who would be crucial to Spurs’ campaign would be Dele Alli, who Mourinho has long admired to get the best of and make him the golden boy pulling the strings in midfield. Marred by inconsistency, he will look to step up efforts and prove that he can make the difference when it absolutely matters.
Predicted table finish
6th Place: Tottenham definitely have enough in them to mount a serious Top 4 challenge. However, there are still doubts over whether they can get the wins consistently as well as keeping their top players fit to make it count.
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