The start of the Premier League season is drawing closer, and Tottenham’s backline looks all too familiar. While Hugo Lloris has been replaced, there are obvious problems which have not been resolved.
With Ange Postecoglou at the helm, the back four returns. It is even more important that the centre-backs defend competently, especially with Pedro Porro having to play as a full-back.
(Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Weak defence
Cristian Romero is the only player at the heart of the defence who is near the required level. Despite this, he has been unreliable at times, receiving eight yellow cards and one red during the 2022/23 season (Premier League).
Players like Eric Dier have been loyal servants to the club, but the time to move on is long overdue.
The inability to sell players is proving costly. Postecoglou confirmed at least one new centre-half will be brought in (Express). The likelihood is there will only be one.
Everyone has seen the statistics. The Lilywhites conceded 63 goals last season, only 7 less than they scored. In the 2021/22 season only 40 goals were conceded (Premier League).
The defence is clearly becoming weaker. Now more than ever, squad turnover is necessary.
Some supporters were panicking early in the window at the lack of transfer activity. Perhaps they were impatient, or maybe they just know what Daniel Levy is like. With the start of the season upcoming, the fears of supporters are being realised.
With the signing of Micky Van de Ven, te defence will not be identical to last season, but issues look set to remain. One centre-half could significantly improve the side, but squad depth will still be lacking. With injuries and suspensions coming into play, there could be times when players like Dier and Sanchez still feature.
Other weak areas
The defence is the obvious weakness in the side. Questions should also be raised about other areas of the pitch. Dejan Kulusevski was signed on a permanent deal for £25m (BBC). The price is good for a player of his quality, but questions could be asked over whether he fits into Ange’s system.
Kulusevski had a poor first full season at the club. While the same could be said for a number of players, the Swedish winger is typically slow on the ball. Time will tell if he thrives in Postecoglou’s quick-paced style of play.
Manor Solomon looked more effective in the side’s limited pre-season schedule, but he is expected to be more of a squad player.
Ultimately, the right-wing position could still be a weakness in the team. Of course, there is every chance Kulusevski silences his doubters and goes on a run of form similar to his first few months at the club.
The real problem
Whether or not the new signings succeed, the quantity is inadequate. It was a necessity to rebuild the squad, and this is looking unlikely. Postecoglou looks set to utilise players previously out on loan which is one positive. This does not change that there has been a lack of support from the top.
With the trip to Brentford not far away, the squad still looks underwhelming for a side attempting to challenge for a Champions League spot. Players who are below the required level should be sold, and replacements should be signed immediately.
Postecoglou will face many fierce competitors during his time at N17, but his biggest enemy is Daniel Levy.
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