In hindsight, although it didn’t seem like it at the time, exiting the two domestic cups may well have been advantageous in terms of the League and CL pursuit.
The mini-break has also come at a perfect time as the players now have the rare opportunity to enjoy some rest and refocus on what’s to come. I think that supporters can do with a break too!
We’ve had a string of tough-to-win games which have provided some outstanding results given the players that have been unavailable and against teams that show less desire to go for an outright win. Hopefully we can now look forward to having a full complement of players fit for some very crucial games coming up.
Good results against Chelsea and Arsenal in the League should effectively eliminate both of those clubs from posing a threat to a top four finish. I get the impression that United have now overtaken both of those clubs and must be favourites for the fourth CL spot …. especially since their new {temporary?) manager has taken the brakes off.
From now on it will be a matter of how high can Spurs go in the league and how far can we go in the CL?
The return leg against Dortmund is, despite a three goal advantage, certainly not done and dusted but should see Spurs go through to the ‘quarters’ if we maintain both concentration and discipline in Germany.
Tottenham’s last few seasons have been, to put it mildly, extremely interesting …. for many reasons. This season is no different. The dramatic improvement of Sissoko, the stunning performances of Sonshine, the continuation of Winks to reach his potential, have all been major factors in arriving where we are today. The strength of our squad has been severely tested by injuries, and not found wanting.
The Tottenham way of playing has now become so ingrained into the squad by Pochettino that no matter which starting eleven takes to the park, they all have the confidence and belief in their own ability and the abilities of their team-mates. And they all have the backing and respect from their manager. Tottenham continue to highlight the fact that football is a ‘team game’ and that money cannot always buy success. For Tottenham, team spirit and unity, is one of the most crucial factors that Pochettino has developed at the club …. and the result is plain to see!
So as we now focus on (probably) the two greatest football competitions to be found in Europe, the question is …. how far can we go in each of them, and what would make for a ‘good’ season in the eyes of most supporters?