Nottingham Forest vs Spurs. Wow! It was not as straightforward game as it might sound. There was a bit of a mess, a player sent off, some suspension issues, a head injury, and other complications. Despite all that, we are definitely back on track.
After a string of less favorable results, five games without a win, and four defeats in there, we managed to secure back-to-back victories. We resumed our momentum from the win against Newcastle last week. The match wasn’t the prettiest or the most attractive display of Posta football, but we got the job done. Even Postecoglou admitted after the game that there was no room for complaints. The victory was particularly satisfying, considering our previous winless streak, especially remembering the horrendous match against Forest just over a year ago. Yesterday’s game was tough, with Forest defending with five men behind the ball and countering effectively until the sending-off.
Romero’s defensive display was solid, with occasional lapses, and his social media messages reflected the team’s commitment to development. Ben Davies often criticised, received well-deserved accolades for his outstanding performance, adapting to the center-back role and providing stability. The defensive unit, makeshift due to injuries, demonstrated resilience. Postecoglou praised their grit, emphasising the challenges faced in dealing with constant long throws and aerial threats.
In the recent match, the defensive performance of our team, particularly that of goalkeeper Vicario, stood out prominently. Despite not having much to do in terms of saves, his dominance was evident, throwing himself around and punching the ball away. Forest fans applauded a late-game moment when Vicario dived out to punch the ball away – a brave and impressive move. Comparisons were drawn with Hugo Lloris, acknowledging Lloris’ decade of service to Spurs but highlighting Vicaro’s dominance, loud communication, and confidence in organising the defense.
Skipp’s potential as a defensive midfielder was evident. It appears he might be better suited to the number six role. However, Hojbjerg has also been in great form especially coming off the bench This does indeed give something to think about for Ange in the next match against Everton.
The disciplinary issues within the team emerged as a significant concern. Despite facing an injury crisis, the number of players suspended due to red and yellow cards raised eyebrows. Postecoglou’s inconsistent public stance on the matter came under scrutiny. The team’s high count of red and yellow cards, joint-most in the league, emphasised the need for improved discipline.
But the real disciplinary talking point was Yves Bissouma’s situation. His red card, the second of the season, means he’ll miss a significant chunk of upcoming matches. There’s a sense that his discipline issues are becoming a concern for the team. Post-match comments suggest there was a feeling that it was an unlucky incident, perhaps a desperate lunge rather than anything malicious. However, the accumulation of suspensions for Bissouma this season has raised doubts about his overall discipline. The absence of Bissouma is a significant blow, especially considering the already depleted squad. With around 10 to 11 potential missed matches, including the FA Cup and potential Africa Cup of Nations involvement, it adds to the frustration. Bissouma’s importance is not just in attacking prowess; his defensive contributions, highlighted by being the second-highest tackler in the league, will be missed.
Amidst the chaos, one shining light has been Dejan Kulusevski. His versatility and evolving attacking prowess are proving vital for Spurs. His recent goal-scoring form and the delightful cross to Richarlison showcase the positive impact of coaching efforts. Kulusevski’s journey from a deeper role to the winger position is paying off, and the player himself seems to be relishing the challenge. In terms of attitude and composure, the team showcased resilience after the red card. “Stay calm and play our game” was the message, and the players delivered. Keeping a clean sheet post-red card speaks volumes about the team’s character. On a personal note, Kulusevski shared some delightful news – he’s set to become a father. His unique celebration and ball-under-the-shirt gesture added a heartwarming touch to the match. Congratulations poured in for Kulusevski, and Spurs fans will undoubtedly be looking forward to celebrating more than just goals in the coming months.
Richarlison’s return from injury was a standout moment, scoring two goals and contributing significantly to the team’s success. Sonny, with two assists and a goal, showcased leadership and determination. The tactical decisions, like switching Richarlison to the center and Sonny to the left flank, paid off, creating more goal-scoring opportunities.
Richarlison has been in stellar form, scoring in back-to-back games, a feat that Spurs fans are delighted to witness. His recent goal, a header, showcases his knack for finding the net with his head. Impressively, six out of his eight goals for Spurs have come from headers, demonstrating his aerial prowess. The latest header was not just a goal but a brave and dominating effort, executed with absolute perfection. Beyond the goal-scoring, Richarlison appears to be gaining more confidence and freedom in his movement. Despite limited chances in the recent game, his overall play has been commendable. Looking at his stats, with five goals and three assists in 15 matches, he’s proving to be a significant contributor, especially considering his hefty £60 million signing price. Postecoglou acknowledges Richalison’s positive impact. In a recent statement, he highlighted Richalison’s effectiveness in the box, emphasising his excellent timing in the air and ability to convert chances. Postecoglou also mentioned Richalison’s improved physical and mental state, reflecting his dedication to the team even during challenging times. Scoring goals is undoubtedly crucial for a striker, but Postecoglou appreciates Richalison’s overall positive contribution to the team.
Looking ahead, the team is anticipating the return of several players, including Eric Dier, who is back on the bench after a groin injury. The injury list also includes the likes of Vanen, Madison, and Soloman, with varying recovery timelines. This brings us to the January transfer window. Postecoglou openly expresses the team’s needs, emphasising the requirement for a new center-back, central midfielder, and additional attacking options. The manager acknowledges the challenges of the January window but stresses the importance of securing impactful signings early on to integrate them effectively into the squad. The manager’s role in shaping the team and instilling a new style of play is evident. His influence is not only felt on the field but also in the transfer strategy, with a focus on acquiring players who align with his vision. The recent success and positive atmosphere surrounding the team make Postecoglou a significant selling point for Spurs in attracting potential transfer targets.
As we look forward to upcoming fixtures, including a challenging match against Everton, it’s clear that Spurs are building momentum. Postecoglou’s impact on the team’s identity and the anticipation of new signings create an optimistic atmosphere among the fans. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining how Spurs finish off 2023 and set the tone for the coming year. COYS!!