Defeat away at Manchester United saw Tottenham Hotspur’s problems laid bare once more. A positive start under Jose Mourinho has seen Tottenham win twice in the Premier League and once in the Champions League since the sacking of Mauricio Pochettino. The loss to United saw Tottenham return to the sluggish and apathetic side that cost Pochettino his job.
Tottenham Hotspur’s Problems
Leaky Defence
Ten goals in Mourinho’s first three games have dampened the idea of boring football coming to Spurs. The problems in the defence continue with six goals also conceded in those games. United’s first goal was, again, all caused by sloppy defending. Davinson Sanchez and the woefully inept Serge Aurier were out of position and strolling around the pitch, affording Marcus Rashford time to score at Paulo Gazzaniga’s near post. It was poor from the keeper, who seemed intent on making saves with Superman-style dives. For the goal, he took an age to get anywhere near the ball and the damage was done.
Dele Alli’s Resurgence
Dele Alli has been back to his best form since Mourinho’s arrival and scored a wonderful goal that pulled Spurs level. His control and finishing showing the impudence fans had become used to seeing with regularity prior to an alarming dip in form in the last few months.
VAR Controversy
Manchester United’s winner came from the penalty spot after Moussa Sissoko was alleged to have brought down Marcus Rashford in the box. Replays showed that Sissoko got a toe on the ball and the VAR replays showed the same. However, as has been the case so many times this season, VAR decided to stick with the officials decision. The system needs to be overhauled as soon as possible. If it is not being used to get incorrect decisions overturned, there is simply little point in it being used at all.
Mourinho Must Deal with Tottenham Hotspur’s Problems
Jose Mourinho will have been under no illusions about the size of the task at Spurs. The loss at Old Trafford will have hurt but most of all it laid bare the problems of what has become a mess.
The defence simply no longer works as a unit. Out of position, slow, leggy and new faces are essential in January. If players no longer want to play for the club, Mourinho needs to be strong and stop playing them. The introduction of Christian Eriksen for 30 minutes was met with boos from the away end. A player who has stopped playing for the club getting match time just seems strange. Pochettino kept playing the Dane and it was one of a number of reasons that he consequently lost his job. Those on the bench watching on must think ‘what’s the point in working hard’ if those who can’t be bothered keep getting minutes on the pitch?
Top four has to be Mourinho’s priority but performances like last nights will not help that cause.
The honeymoon is over and now Jose Mourinho has his work cut out to try and solve Tottenham Hotspur’s problems.
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