Jose Mourinho recycled his pre-lockdown excuse of not having enough options on the bench before – and after – (and probably during) Tottenham’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Friday.
Despite now having the luxury of five substitutions up his sleeve, Mourinho only made two changes during the squad’s first competitive fixture in over three months, and we limped and panted our way to a point late on.
Giovani Lo Celso and Gedson Fernandes were the two reserves Jose did turn too, and lots of fans were frustrated that Tanguy Ndombele was not called upon in light of Mourinho’s positive recent comments about him.
But the Portuguese was absolutely right not to bring him on.
We were coming under substantial pressure in the second half and Ndombele has not shown anything in his time at Spurs thus far that he could be depended on to keep our shape or follow his runner, etc.
The Frenchman may have helped us keep the ball a lot better, and thus relieved some of the United pressure, but until he can be trusted to do the dirty work too then he is too risky an option in those rearguard situations.
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The game was absolutely crying out for him. We needed someone to carry the ball when we had, would’ve taken pressure of us, and potentially created some openings for us. As it was, with the exception of Gio, no one could hold the ball at that stage. So off base it’s ridiculous
Maureen is right though our bench is limited. No second striker to bring on. No luxuries like pogba on the bench. Our first eleven isnt too bad, but as soon as we look to the bench theres a sudden steep decline of standard.. Which is why we are 8th in league and so far behind liverpool and city… Their benches are as good as their starters.
Few players have ninety minutes in them, they all need game time. Poch used to be criticised heavily on this blog for no subs or making them too late. Jose does the same and not a cheep. Funny Man United put on subs and turned the game. Very surprised as making timely subs is one of Mourinho’s strengths. I think his comments in public on the uselessness of the bench aren’t helpful, doesn’t exactly inspire them to get behind him if he doesn’t believe in them.
Agree, but Jose should have taken Kane off and let Son play up front. Sess could have slotted in on the left and with his pace we could have caused them problems. I’m also tired of seeing Winks in the lineup, he’s just not good enough. It’s ok to give him a run against weaker sides.