After the disappointment of last season, many would think that, under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, things would be much brighter in the upcoming year. Last years spending spree worth of talent would surely have settled in and all would be well as Spurs look to press on with their depth of talent and quality in their squad. Pochettino even made some astute signings himself, covering positions that were quite weak or exposed. Very promising, it seemed. The push for the top four might actually become achievable.
However, in reality, things are not going to plan for the Argentine’s new side. Just four wins in eleven games and many Spurs fans are scratching their heads. If he can do it with Southampton, why not for Spurs? Simply, it isn’t that straightforward. Three managers in two years at the club, all with questionable levels of success in all competitions, implies that this is more than just a managerial issue. Important players from last season seem to be struggling to recreate the form they showed, particularly Emmanuel Adebayor and Christian Eriksen being the names that come to mind immediately. The team in general seems unable to implement Pochettino’s play style and to that you cannot really point fingers at anyone. It will take more time. Yet with some people already screaming for Pochettino’s sacking, you have to wonder whether some fans want the club to succeed or not.
The season did not have the worst of starts for The Lilywhites, who found themselves top of the table after their first two games, with two solid wins under their belt including a very impressive 4-0 rout of QPR. This game really showed the quality in the Spurs side. The team attacked as a unit as well as allowing individual brilliance to shine through, particularly from wide positions through Erik Lamela and Nacer Chadli, the latter grabbing himself two goals. Things looked good for the North London club.
Yet, tables turned and form crashed. Disappointing results followed, with a heavy defeat to Liverpool, a frustrating draw to Sunderland and a disappointing loss at home to West Bromwich Albion. It was clear by looking at the players on the pitch: morale was low and confidence even lower. Currently sat in twelfth place after eleven games, alarms bells should not be ringing just yet although it is clear some hefty work has to be done and changes have to be made. Realistically, although Spurs should probably continue to aim and push for that coveted Top 4 position, it is looking more and more likely that Top 6 should be at least a minimum. If they do not achieve this, it will feel like another year wasted in the push for Champions League football, especially with teams such as Southampton making such good claims for positions above them.
It must not be forgotten, however, that Spurs are enjoying a good run in the Europa League and are many people’s favourite to win the competition. Personally, I feel this should be considered a high priority for Pochettino and his side. With new rules stating that Europa League winners get entry into the Champions League, this is a great opportunity for Tottenham to claw their way back into Europe’s elite competition and experience the glory of Champions League nights at White Hart Lane once again.
With the club down and battered, it is time for the players to stand up and prove their worth. Tottenham are long overdue a trophy of some kind and if Pochettino can get his team playing the way everyone knows he can, there is no reason why the club from North London can’t deliver.
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