Because the 12 months attracts to an in depth Tottenham followers might discover themselves reflecting on the primary half of a season that maybe embodies that the majority annoying of tags that has been connected to their membership in recent times.
Ange Postecoglou appeared to have cast away that ‘Spursy’ label in a blistering begin after his appointment final summer season, marrying the membership’s much-trumpeted want for enjoyable, attacking soccer with an apparently hard-edged skill to truly win most of their matches. It appeared like a dream mixture for individuals who dared to do, and Tottenham have been being talked about as real title contenders as they received eight and drew two of their opening 10 matches. ‘Ange-ball’ was the discuss of the highest flight.
Then, as the times grew shorter, accidents hit onerous and the wheels appeared to fall off. Spurs were ‘Spursy’ again. 4 defeats and a attract 5 video games introduced all of the outdated anxieties flooding again and the gregarious Postecoglou went from being everybody’s favorite fantasy barbecue host, to wanting extra like a grumpy uncle who may explode and wreck the household get-together.
Then three wins on the trot recommended a December fightback however Thursday’s 4-2 defeat at Brighton – the place they trailed 4-0 earlier than a late rally – once more noticed a weak underbelly uncovered and the crew appeared jaded. Postecoglou has admitted his high-energy, high-risk fashion takes a tough toll on gamers and has requested for funds to bolster his squad early in January.
Right this moment’s opponents will pose one other stiff check for the Greek-Australian coach. Bournemouth are the league’s kind facet, having received six of their final seven matches and 4 on the trot away from dwelling. After a tough begin following his not universally fashionable substitute of Gary O’Neil, Basque supervisor Andoni Iraola appears to have gotten his strategies throughout and is reaping the dividends as his facet have catapulted themselves into mid-table.
Striker Dominic Solanke is on hearth, having netted eight instances of their seven-game unbeaten streak. He’s positive to check the Spurs again line, the world which Postecoglou is most anxious to strengthen.