The Bayern game raised a number of concerns. So let’s address them in no particular order. Yes, I do understand that this was a preseason friendly, but goodness me, why did we appear so woefully unprepared?
A new manager, but the same problems?
So far, under Thomas Frank, we’ve certainly seen a more organised football side, and gone is the school playground game that Ange Postecoglou brought to N17. However, in his post-match comments, we got an awful lot of feedback that echoed the sentiments of the previous Tottenham coaches.
‘Obviously playing a very good team tonight.’
‘We didn’t hit a good level.’
‘I definitely got some answers that we will look into, and we will calmly reflect on.’
I’m not sure Frank got answers at all; what I saw were far too many questions. Questions such as, ‘Where’s the creativity?’ and, ‘Why is Richarlison still here?’
The impact of James Maddison’s injury and the loss of Son
This side had two large holes in it, one down to a horrific injury and one that was essentially down to retirement. What has been evident with both Madders and Son is that neither has been routinely on their game for some considerable time.
What’s the plan with Son’s successor? There is a suspicion that Wilson Oderbert could be in the frame, after allegedly impressing in Frank’s early days. This strikes me a hugely ambitious, given the career performances we’ve seen from the lad.
If Kudus is also tipped to be a creative force, then that’s also a concern, as last night he lost the ball 21 times. It doesn’t bode well.
Will the impact of new signings be enough
In a word, it doesn’t feel like it. Paulinha was hooked at half-time, and it may be the case that had this game not been open to the public and the world’s media, he wouldn’t have lasted as long.
Romero and Benatncur were ineffective. Van de Ven provided an excellent impression of Eric Dier.
It feels like there is too much to do in just 9 days, and after the Bayern game, one can see why this lot finished 17th.
