Tottenham’s Squad Review: A Race Against Time
With just nine days left before the transfer window closes, Tottenham Hotspur’s squad is under the microscope. The North London club, historically known for its English core and nurturing young talent, finds itself in a precarious position. Here’s a deep dive into the current state of affairs at Spurs.
Goalkeepers: A Crowded House
Tottenham’s goalkeeping department is brimming with options. The list includes Fraser Forster, Vicario, Hugo Lloris, Alfie Whiteman, and Brandon Austin. While Lloris’s impending exit is a significant talking point, the club’s future between the sticks seems to be in the capable hands of Vicario. Forster, with his commendable deputy role last season, is expected to be the second choice. The real question lies with Whiteman and Austin. Both 24, they’re no longer the youth prospects they once were. The consensus is that one might stay as a third choice, while the other could be loaned out or transferred.
Centre-backs: Quality or Quantity?
The heart of the defense boasts names like Davidson Sanchez, Mickey van der Veen, Eric Dier, Cuti Romero, Japhet Tanganga, and Ashley Phillips. While Romero, the vice-captain, is a mainstay, and Van der Veen, a new signing, is expected to feature prominently, the futures of the others are less certain. Sanchez’s pre-season form has been a pleasant surprise, but a good offer might see him depart. Dier, entering the last year of his contract and yet to feature in a matchday squad, seems destined for an exit. Tanganga, despite his potential, might also be on the move. Young Ashley Phillips, at 18, might be the fifth choice, but the club’s reliance on him should ideally be minimal. The consensus? Spurs need another quality centre-back.
Full-backs: The Left Conundrum and Right Stability
On the left, Tottenham has Destiny Udogie, Sergio Reguilon, Ben Davies, and Ryan Sessegnon. Udogie is the star, the first choice, and the future. Reguilon, despite his potential, seems to be on his way out, with rumors linking him to Spanish clubs. Davies, versatile enough to cover both center and left, is a reliable backup. Sessegnon’s situation is tricky. Injuries have hampered his progress, and with a plethora of options ahead of him, his game time might be limited.
The right-back slot seems more settled with Pedro Porro and Emerson Royale. Both have started a game apiece this season, showcasing their importance to the squad. Djed Spence, however, seems to be the odd one out, with reports suggesting manager Ange is unhappy with his attitude.
The Wingers’ Dilemma
Tottenham’s wing options include Ivan Perisic, Bryan Gil, Heung Min Son, Kulusevski, and Manor Solomon. While Solomon has expressed his preference for the left side, he can also operate on the right. This flexibility is mirrored by Gil. However, with five wingers vying for two spots, there’s a surplus. The consensus is that while Perisic has been a valuable asset, he might be the one to make way if Spurs are to bring in another winger. The squad seems to lean more towards the left, with Son, Gil, and Perisic all favoring that side. This imbalance suggests the need for a natural right-winger to complement Kulasevski.
Midfield Overload
The central midfield is brimming with options. Bissouma, Bentancur, Maddison, Hojbjerg, Skipo, Lo Celso, Sarr, and Ndombele are all competing for a spot. The ideal scenario would be to trim this list down to six. The likely candidates to depart are Ndombele, Lo Celso, and Hojbjerg. However, the recent breakdown of Rodrigo de Paul’s move to Saudi Arabia might mean Hojbjerg stays, complicating matters further.
Striker Shortage
In stark contrast to other areas, Tottenham is light upfront. With only Richarlison and Alejo Veliz as recognized strikers and Veliz not expected to feature until the second half of the season, there’s a glaring need for reinforcements. Son’s recent central role against Manchester United showcased his adaptability, suggesting he could fill in upfront if required. However, the ideal scenario would be to bring in a versatile forward who can operate both as a winger and a striker.
The Homegrown Quandary
Historically, Tottenham has boasted a strong contingent of English players. However, the current squad paints a different picture. Of the homegrown talents, many are on the potential exit list. This poses a significant challenge, especially given the Premier League’s homegrown player regulations.
The Verdict
Tottenham’s defense, while packed with options, needs fine-tuning. The goalkeeping department seems set for the future, but the centre-back and left-back positions require attention. With only a few days left in the transfer window, Spurs have their work cut out. The hope is that by its close, Tottenham will have a more streamlined and effective defensive lineup.
Tottenham’s squad is in flux. While there’s undeniable quality in the ranks, there’s also a clear need to streamline. The next nine days will be pivotal. The club must offload surplus players and reinforce critical areas, particularly upfront. However, with time running out, the task ahead is daunting. The hope is that by the end of the transfer window, Spurs will have a balanced, competitive squad ready to tackle the challenges of the Premier League season.
