Tottenham’s record signing Moussa Sissoko initially failed to impress at the club, but has recently impressed in the Premier League. Sissoko’s run of form must continue if he wishes to cement a place in the first team against the likes of Erik Lamela.
Moussa Sissoko’s Excellent Form Must Continue
The competition between the two may forge stellar performances between them in order to invigorate Tottenham’s attack. But, to have quality in depth is also important. Rotating an in-form Sissoko and Lamela would ensure a quality right midfield.
Continuing the run of form is also important for the club by supplying the likes of Harry Kane with his crossing and providing another angle of attack out wide.
Competition
Lamela’s injury was undoubtedly the main reason why Sissoko has gained some first-team minutes. All injuries allow the opportunity for a less-favoured player to prove themselves worthy of a start. Recently, Sissoko has begun to prove himself worthy of that starting place. Whilst before there were lacklustre performances, now there seems to be a new energy to his play.
This is just in time for the imminent return of Lamela. The Argentinian underwent his own transformation at the club but has proved himself a crucial first-team player. His return to the squad will create healthy competition between him and Sissoko. This is important in boosting their performances, which in turn boosts their team’s results.
Depth
It is hard to predict which player will emerge on top, but there is arguably more depth due to Sissoko’s emergence. Both players possess different assets.
Whilst Lamela is a tenacious, skilful and more creative midfielder, Sissoko exploits an ability to physically dominate his opponents. Lamela tends to cut inside, whilst Sissoko usually heads to the by-line. They can both be deployed as inside-forwards and are perhaps better suited there compared to winger roles.
This allows manager Mauricio Pochettino plenty of depth in his squad. Therefore, this allows for more flexibility in starting elevens. Also, the match dynamics can be changed by substituting either player. Sissoko’s form has really added to the squad depth and can allow his club to advance their league position.
Assists
Recently, Kyle Walker and Danny Rose both notched assists from wide areas to set up Christian Eriksen against Hull City. This was reminiscent of the traditional playing style for Spurs, with marauding wingers setting up clinical strikers. Now, the fullbacks are the only element of pace in the game.
Whilst Dele Alli, Eriksen and Harry Kane aren’t slow, they lack the pace to cause defences trouble, which is why Sissoko is so important. His recent performances have injected extra speed and acceleration, stretching defences and creating the gaps for team-mates to exploit.
Sissoko’s pace also adds to the counter-attacking threat that Spurs could employ against tougher teams. Whether it is directly from a cross or a vital link in an attacking move, Sissoko could help to assist his strikers.
Will Sissoko Continue His Form?
Sissoko has often been lambasted for his inconsistency. However, Pochettino seems to have riled him into improving this element of his game. So long as he remains disciplined and works hard, he may continue his form.
The return of Lamela may jeopardise his place. But if he continues his strong play, his team-mate may have to wait his turn. Moussa Sissoko is a powerful player, who on his day could really bolster Spurs’ attacking threat.
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