Pundit Craig Burley has expressed his views on Tottenham’s strong start to the season, suggesting that one of the factors contributing to their success is the decision to bench Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.
Spurs are on a flying start under new manager Ange Postecoglou who has made an immediate impact at the club.
They have won 4 consecutive games and drawn one, remaining one of the few unbeaten sides in the league.
They are playing some of the most attractive football and are beaming with confidence.
Speaking on ESPN FC, the former midfielder suggested that the lack of dynamism in Hojbjerg’s play is what was holding Spurs back.
He said:
“I have never been a huge fan of Hojbjerg. I am just not.”
“I think he runs around a lot, passes it sideways, and then he was playing with [Oliver] Skipp.
“I think the personnel change, especially in midfield and the addition of Maddison, allied to the manager who wants them to go out and play… it’s just a huge difference.”
Hojbjerg joined Spurs in 2020 after impressing the club with his performances for Southampton.
And since joining he has been one of Spurs most consistent and reliable players in the midfield.
But it’s important to keep into consideration that the managers he played under all employed a passive style of play which perhaps suited the Dane.
Ange Postecoglou’s style of play is completely opposite to the previous managers, with him demanding a much more attacking football.
The likes of Yves Bissouma, James Maddison and Bentancur / Sarr are well suited for it compared to Hojbjerg.
Once Bentancur returns from his injury Hojbjerg will fall further down the pecking order.
He was linked with a move away in the summer with Atletico Madrid showing keen interest in signing him but a deal could not be agreed.
