“It’s just how we play, mate”. That’s often been the response from Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou when quizzed on the club’s current playing style.
It’s certainly entertaining. That said, Spurs have now conceded over 50 shots in their last three home matches and also conceded 13 goals in those clashes.
Now, you may well argue that the Lilywhites are without the likes of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven but there is a lack of planning from Postecoglou when the going gets tough.
Where’s the plan B? It doesn’t look like there is one. As such, no matter the scoreline, Spurs play a high line and are repeatedly punished for doing so.
When will the penny drop? It might not be until the Aussie is relieved from his duties, not that it looks like that will happen anytime soon.
Ange is a likeable bloke, let’s get that out there. He really is. He’s been an honest voice and knows the culture of this football club has to change if they want to win trophies. However, as a team like Arsenal have shown, you need a strong defence in order to build the foundations from the ground up.
Spurs chasing Serie A star in 2025
So, on this occasion, it’s not the defence that’s being touted with being strengthened. Instead, it’s a midfielder who would undoubtedly make the spine of this Spurs team a great deal stronger.
Indeed, according to reports from ESPN last week, it revealed a few targets that the Londoners could look towards in the new year.
One of those is Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, who the club have reportedly been scouting with a view to making a move.
Previous reports have suggested that the talented Dutch midfielder could set any suitor back a £50m fee.
That would paint him in the James Maddison or Dejan Kulusevski mould, so one might question the need for him. Well, look at how he stacks up to Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard and Phil Foden and let us know what you think now.
Indeed, according to FBRef’s similar players tool, the three are noted as comparable assets. Reijnders might not have a 27-goal seasonal haul in him like Foden registered in 2023/24 but there are some parallels to draw.
