Each season, specific games denote how a Premier League side’s season is going. For example, with a few key players out, getting beaten away by a Fulham side that finds itself desperate for points can be occasionally forgiven, whereas approaching a true rival, a side that is likely to impact critically upon one’s own campaign, has to be met with both barrels blazing; no excuses.
For Tottenham, there are always those key clashes which definitively set the tone and give supporters a real sense of where their club is. A benchmark, if you like. On Sunday, September 15th, Spurs will be just four games into their season and shall find themselves at home to Arsenal. This is a rivalry which goes back some distance but remains fresh to many. The Gunners finished above us last season and it has to be said, they frequently do. As the season kicks off, betting markets become increasingly dynamic. Predicting how clubs might fare in a new season is tough, but new customer betting offers provide fans with the best value and information as they attempt to solve the latest set of puzzles. These offers often include enhanced odds and special promotions, making the betting experience even more exciting.
We don’t have to wait too long for the second key tie, as Tottenham travel to Old Trafford on the 29th of September to face Manchester United. The North Londoners have only won two of their last 11 league clashes with Man United, but two of their last three victories over them have come away at Old Trafford, which is what makes this clash so fascinating. The Red Devils have been undergoing an extended period of revamping, ever since Sir Alex Ferguson retired, with many managers of note struggling to make the role their own. Notably José Mourinho and Erik ten Hag both shared excellent win percentages and won silverware, yet the fans and the press afforded neither coach much in the way of love. This will be a game that Ange Postecoglou will be minded to do well in.
Ideally, one key match-up would be a domestic cup final, it has been so long since Spurs lifted the Carling Cup, that it’s embarrassing, so one of my picks for a top tie would be for a memorable cup run completed with a final win.
April 2nd sees Spurs travel to Stamford Bridge which has in recent years seen tempers flare. Last time out, Postecoglou himself even got caught up in the feral atmosphere. Usually an unflustered presence on the sideline, the Australian was incensed when the officials flagged for an offside that he vehemently disagreed with.
All the goodwill in the world can’t be a substitute for the Spurs coach getting the personnel that he needs in this window, and so of all the possible outcomes ahead, meaningful transfers are amongst the most important events to get right.
