Tottenham’s midweek defeat to Manchester United was a game that the Lilywhites really failed to show up in. The fans have got a lot to be frustrated about, as they failed the first real test of the Jose Mourinho era, although now bouncing back will be absolutely crucial.
However, if they are going to bounce back then one key style point of this side over the last four games has to change, especially considering the side they’re set to face tomorrow at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Sean Dyche’s Burnley are coming to town, and whilst the Clarets have proven to be an excellent side over the last couple of years, there are truths to the stereotypes surrounding the Lancashire side and the way that they play, with strength, long balls and a no-nonsense approach.
With that being said, Tottenham must look at the way they’re playing and make some changes. Jose Mourinho has encouraged this side to play long and go more direct when they can, and that simply will not work when the Turf Moor faithful come to town.
The likes of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee will gobble up Toby Alderweirelds long balls, and trying to play an attritional side like the Clarets at their own game just isn’t the way to go. Mourinho is smart enough to know that, but now it’s about applying a system and a tactical outlook that will work.
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Utilising the likes of Lucas Moura and Heung-Min Son could be key here, and whilst getting behind Burnley will not be easy, that’s where you hurt them, and it’s certainly something that the Lilywhites are capable of, it’s just about making it happen now and Mourinho putting it into action.