As the yr attracts to an in depth Tottenham followers might discover themselves reflecting on the primary half of a season that maybe embodies that almost all annoying of tags that has been connected to their membership in latest years.
Ange Postecoglou appeared to have forged away that ‘Spursy’ label in a blistering begin after his appointment final summer time, marrying the membership’s much-trumpeted want for enjoyable, attacking soccer with an apparently hard-edged potential to truly win most of their matches. It appeared like a dream mixture for individuals who dared to do, and Tottenham had been being talked about as real title contenders as they gained 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 had been ‘Spursy’ once more. Four defeats and a draw in 5 video games introduced all of the outdated anxieties flooding back and the gregarious Postecoglou went from being everybody’s favorite fantasy barbecue host, to wanting extra like a grumpy uncle who might explode and smash the household get-together.
Then three wins on the trot urged 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 workforce seemed jaded. Postecoglou has admitted his high-energy, high-risk model takes a tough toll on gamers and has requested for funds to strengthen his squad early in January.
Today’s opponents will pose one other stiff take a look at for the Greek-Australian coach. Bournemouth are the league’s kind facet, having gained six of their final seven matches and 4 on the trot away from dwelling. After a difficult begin following his not universally well-liked alternative 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 fireplace, having netted eight instances in their seven-game unbeaten streak. He is bound to check the Spurs back line, the world which Postecoglou is most anxious to strengthen.
