posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Phenom (U20037)
posted 3 minutes ago
Brighton is another real tough one, he'll probably play the same team again with perhaps just Palhinha coming into midfield for Bentancur and try get another smash and grab type win
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yep, and for some bizarre reason their League Cup game is played next week, not this week, which feels slightly unfair. They should have scheduled it to make our Prem fixture more balanced. As it is, we'll be shattered and they'll be fresh as a daisy.
Can see a defeat looming.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
Bergvall and Sarr starting positions very advanced, so makes us feel outnumbered all over the park, obviously a reason behind it but makes it very difficult when we lose the ball deeper
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 46 seconds ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 2 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 8 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 19 minutes ago
comment by Dan Arsenal (U21084)
posted 1 hour, 32 minutes ago
you lot remind me of what we were like when Arteta first came in. Organised, determined and very defensive.
Hmmmm............... come to think of it, that's what we are still like 5 years later.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Actually when Arteta came in, after you offloaded Aubameyang and Lacazette and the likes of Saka and Smith Rowe came in, you lot were really expansive. It's only in more recent years that you've become more defensively sound. Arteta's first 2 years reminded me of the change we saw under Poch. Didn't start well but then suddenly you could start to see it working.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Gooooners wanted Arteta out for the first 18 months because he was soooo boring and defensive.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
That's just not true. They wanted him out because he wasn't getting results. There was nothing wrong with the performances then. I saw it with my own eyes. I remember one particular game on tv away at Watford, with the old guard out and Saka, Smith Rowe and a few younger lads in and the fluidity of their play made me sit up and take notice. Something was happening and it worried me, as, at the time, we were ahead of them. It really reminded me of when things started to click for us under Poch. The more functional nature of their play has only started to creep in I'd say in the last 18 months. They've become so good at set pieces, they've lost focus elsewhere, but they definitely weren't boring and defensive back then.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Not getting results off the back of scoring 55 and 56 goals in his first 2 seasons.
His first full season Arsenal had the best defence outside of the top 4 by a mile and the 2nd worst attack in the top 10. I have a couple goooony mates and one whinged the whole time about the boring defensive approach, the other less so, he loved the "trust the process" slogan...and it was a process, one that began with defensive solidity before becoming more expansive. They went on to score in the 80s and 90s.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The difference here is that attacking patterns under Arteta, Pep and Maresca, amongst a few others, are heavily coached, which is a major source of frustration for some creative players. Frank is a little different in that he coaches structure and stability but the attacking third is very much done on instinct by the players alone. It leans on the talents you have at your disposal.
The only thing I would say is that there's a few new faces in the attacking areas and they all need to get used to each other. We're defensively sound because they're both talented AND familiar with each other. Maybe it'll change as Xavi, Kudus and Muani get used to working with squad more.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 3 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 minute ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 12 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 8 minutes ago
comment by JustCallMeTed (U21528)
posted 7 minutes ago
Villarreal are a good team...that's why they're in Chumps ionship. I feel sorry for their GK.....really a schoolboy error gave us our goal.
But with our back four fit, we can ride out challenges.
We have a good squad now...likes of Bergvall and Spence and Sarr pushing forward, midfield is looking better.
I'm not convinced about Simons (XAVI). but Kudu has had some good games., particularly the PSG game.
I do wish we had a better front line now Son is gone.
we should have gotten Eze, but that's history.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
As Eze is proving at Arsenal, he's not really a left winger.
XS is also not a LW, the lad is new the team, league, country. You may not be convinced by him but give the lad a chance.
I think he's being eased in on the left before being thrown into the midfield, where Bergvall has done well.
The line-ups have had a defensive bias and i think that will change as we begin to develop and evolve under TF.
If there is one thing we all hated under Ange it is that we had to play well to get anything from games. So far we are playing OK and have 4 wins from 5.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Is there a defensive bias? I think that's trying to justify last night's performance as somehow planned. We played with a back 4, a single pivot in midfield with Bentancur and almost two rotating 8/10s in Bergvall and Sarr. Both full backs bombed on regularly too. It wasn't a defensive set up by any means. The players just looked absolute dogshiiiit out there. It was as bizarre as the Bournemouth game. Perhaps the occasion got to them given how inexperienced a lot of them are but I don't think Frank's intentions were to sit deep and be solid. Maybe in other games with Paulinha, Bentancur and Sarr in midfield I think you're probably right. I think now maybe he's starting to see what we all see in Bergvall.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Would you say Bents, Paulinha and Sarr vs Bournemouth is defensive, 3 attacking players on the pitch, thats about the least any team puts out in any game
Last night was a bit more offensive in that Bergvall was added to 3 attackers, but Bergvall isnt a 10 he's a CM playing in 10, so we can easily go more attacking with say XS at 10 and Odobert at LW. and i would dare say that most top teams play with 4 attackers and the likes of Palmer Wirtz Foden Odegaard Rogers are the attacking sorts behind an attacking 3. Bergvall isnt really the same type of player as these (not yet) whereas XS or Madders would be.
We have options which is great but right now we are not being overly attacking in the line ups.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, that's why I referred to the Bournemouth game.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I said line-ups were defensively biased, and they are.
3 attackers, or 3 attackers + Bergvall/Sarr in an 8/10 is towards the bottom end of the scale in terms of an attacking line-up.
Most teams have a 4th attacker and attacking FBs.
I am not saying that the tactics were defensive, or deliberately to sit deep, but players have natural attributes and creativity isnt Sarrs and Bergvall is more of an all rounder than the likes of XS or Maddison who are far more creative, who will find the hole naturally and who are not buzzing around midfield chasing the ball but actually finding space, in dangerous areas and joining the attack or going beyond the attackers. I think Bergvall could become this, a bit more of a MGW type, in time.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
I wouldn’t be disappointed if we went to Brighton and ground out a nil nil. I think it would confirm where I think we are under Frank - he has more or less sorted the first choice defensive unit and taught the whole side how to stay tight and will over time loosen up or become a more effective attacking unit.
Last night was the perfect example of winning a tight game, we got a bit of luck with our goal and we ground out the result
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 4 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 3 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 minute ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 12 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 8 minutes ago
comment by JustCallMeTed (U21528)
posted 7 minutes ago
Villarreal are a good team...that's why they're in Chumps ionship. I feel sorry for their GK.....really a schoolboy error gave us our goal.
But with our back four fit, we can ride out challenges.
We have a good squad now...likes of Bergvall and Spence and Sarr pushing forward, midfield is looking better.
I'm not convinced about Simons (XAVI). but Kudu has had some good games., particularly the PSG game.
I do wish we had a better front line now Son is gone.
we should have gotten Eze, but that's history.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
As Eze is proving at Arsenal, he's not really a left winger.
XS is also not a LW, the lad is new the team, league, country. You may not be convinced by him but give the lad a chance.
I think he's being eased in on the left before being thrown into the midfield, where Bergvall has done well.
The line-ups have had a defensive bias and i think that will change as we begin to develop and evolve under TF.
If there is one thing we all hated under Ange it is that we had to play well to get anything from games. So far we are playing OK and have 4 wins from 5.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Is there a defensive bias? I think that's trying to justify last night's performance as somehow planned. We played with a back 4, a single pivot in midfield with Bentancur and almost two rotating 8/10s in Bergvall and Sarr. Both full backs bombed on regularly too. It wasn't a defensive set up by any means. The players just looked absolute dogshiiiit out there. It was as bizarre as the Bournemouth game. Perhaps the occasion got to them given how inexperienced a lot of them are but I don't think Frank's intentions were to sit deep and be solid. Maybe in other games with Paulinha, Bentancur and Sarr in midfield I think you're probably right. I think now maybe he's starting to see what we all see in Bergvall.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Would you say Bents, Paulinha and Sarr vs Bournemouth is defensive, 3 attacking players on the pitch, thats about the least any team puts out in any game
Last night was a bit more offensive in that Bergvall was added to 3 attackers, but Bergvall isnt a 10 he's a CM playing in 10, so we can easily go more attacking with say XS at 10 and Odobert at LW. and i would dare say that most top teams play with 4 attackers and the likes of Palmer Wirtz Foden Odegaard Rogers are the attacking sorts behind an attacking 3. Bergvall isnt really the same type of player as these (not yet) whereas XS or Madders would be.
We have options which is great but right now we are not being overly attacking in the line ups.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, that's why I referred to the Bournemouth game.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I said line-ups were defensively biased, and they are.
3 attackers, or 3 attackers + Bergvall/Sarr in an 8/10 is towards the bottom end of the scale in terms of an attacking line-up.
Most teams have a 4th attacker and attacking FBs.
I am not saying that the tactics were defensive, or deliberately to sit deep, but players have natural attributes and creativity isnt Sarrs and Bergvall is more of an all rounder than the likes of XS or Maddison who are far more creative, who will find the hole naturally and who are not buzzing around midfield chasing the ball but actually finding space, in dangerous areas and joining the attack or going beyond the attackers. I think Bergvall could become this, a bit more of a MGW type, in time.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The problem is that if you play Bergvall in the 10 position, you lose that ability he has to turn and carry the ball upfield. He's definitely a box to box 8 for me. It's crying out for Xavi in the 10 space, mainly because we don't have anyone else that can play there. Bergvall and Sarr are doing a job there but it's not their game and I think Frank knows that. We're as short there as we all though we would be. That's why this window wasn't as great as many suggest because injuries left us unbalanced. We need to decide what Xavi actually is because it's hard to call his position at the minute. Kulu's return can't come soon enough.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Phenom (U20037)
posted 43 minutes ago
we are still quite open in midfield, leading to a lot asked of CBs which doesnt seem sustainable however good they are
----------------------------------------------------------------------
This is why Xavi hasn't been asked to play there yet. He got bullied off the ball a few times yday. It would be even worse if he played in the ten.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Luka "The List" Brasi (U22178)
posted 35 minutes ago
comment by Phenom (U20037)
posted 43 minutes ago
we are still quite open in midfield, leading to a lot asked of CBs which doesnt seem sustainable however good they are
----------------------------------------------------------------------
This is why Xavi hasn't been asked to play there yet. He got bullied off the ball a few times yday. It would be even worse if he played in the ten.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Also a very, very lucky boy not to see red. Thought he was a passenger to be honest. I was hoping he was going to have a little more arrogance about him but he doesn't seem the type to demand the ball, yet.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 59 minutes ago
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The problem is that if you play Bergvall in the 10 position, you lose that ability he has to turn and carry the ball upfield. He's definitely a box to box 8 for me. It's crying out for Xavi in the 10 space, mainly because we don't have anyone else that can play there. Bergvall and Sarr are doing a job there but it's not their game and I think Frank knows that. We're as short there as we all though we would be. That's why this window wasn't as great as many suggest because injuries left us unbalanced. We need to decide what Xavi actually is because it's hard to call his position at the minute. Kulu's return can't come soon enough.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I agree
I said before we signed XS that we were having some success with Sarr pushing on as we pressed so effectively that way and anyone who comes in at 10 will need that energy/attribute as well as creativity, which is why MGW was probably the ideal man.
I think XS has to come to 10 soon enough, but its what happens behind him that is still a question mark. Sarr adds real non stop energy and pressing but lacks the baller bit, Bergvall is also energetic and quite physical and makes things tick nicely...but can he play alongside Bents or Paulinha?
Its going to be interesting to see how we find balance and no doubt it will be different combos against different opposition, but if XS is the ever present then its Paulinha, Bentancur Sarr Bergvall rotating behind him.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 41 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Solanke for his size and heading ability will prove useful now we have made set pieces a legitimate threat and are putting in a lot of crosses.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 30 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
For me his pressing is good, although not at Dom levels. His play with back to goal is where he's poor and thats where Dom would help us in games like last night as we struggled to get out of our half.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 1 hour, 11 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never seen a comment to suggest Richy is a good passer 🤷🏻♂️
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Luka "The List" Brasi (U22178)
posted 7 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 1 hour, 11 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never seen a comment to suggest Richy is a good passer 🤷🏻♂️
----------------------------------------------------------------------
neither
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
tenacious, chithouse, good in the air, capable of a great finish
bout it
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Luka "The List" Brasi (U22178)
posted 29 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 1 hour, 11 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never seen a comment to suggest Richy is a good passer 🤷🏻♂️
----------------------------------------------------------------------
someone should have gone to specsavers
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
Second half we were out played but remained solid at the back and rode our luck.
---
Yeah was pretty annoying how Villarreal spotted they could just shut off Bergvall and Sarr from getting the ball. It took Frank way too long IMO to make the switch to a double pivot - better teams would've punished us more. But also more experienced midfielders would've been dropping deep to help out Bentancur. Big learning curve for Frank and the players.
Still, a win's a win and hopefully they carry the learning into the next game
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
Also I thought Bentancur was struggling on his own anyway. You can't run through treacle and be weak in the tackle. If we're gonna do 4141 it needs to be Palhinha there. IMO
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Bãleș left boot - Palhinha my goat (U22081)
posted 1 hour, 4 minutes ago
Also I thought Bentancur was struggling on his own anyway. You can't run through treacle and be weak in the tackle. If we're gonna do 4141 it needs to be Palhinha there. IMO
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yeah I don’t think Bentancur is the same after those injuries, he just seems ponderous at times and can’t really drive with the ball anymore.
I definitely think the next big upgrade, assuming we can’t get an elite striker, is to ship out Bents and Biss and get another really good 8 in. I’m assuming with that we sign Palhinha permanently and Gray is being groomed into a 6 as well
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
We've got an elite striker, he's just playing for Oxford right now
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
Well, you'll all hate me for saying this, but.......
you know who would turn this squad into a real contender?
Guess!
Answer i next post.
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
Harry Kane.
Yes, and he's getting on too!
Banging them in for you know who.
We might meet them on our way...
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
Son scored a hatrick in the MLS
Sign in if you want to comment
Take it and run
Page 2 of 3
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Phenom (U20037)
posted 3 minutes ago
Brighton is another real tough one, he'll probably play the same team again with perhaps just Palhinha coming into midfield for Bentancur and try get another smash and grab type win
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yep, and for some bizarre reason their League Cup game is played next week, not this week, which feels slightly unfair. They should have scheduled it to make our Prem fixture more balanced. As it is, we'll be shattered and they'll be fresh as a daisy.
Can see a defeat looming.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
Bergvall and Sarr starting positions very advanced, so makes us feel outnumbered all over the park, obviously a reason behind it but makes it very difficult when we lose the ball deeper
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 46 seconds ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 2 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 8 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 19 minutes ago
comment by Dan Arsenal (U21084)
posted 1 hour, 32 minutes ago
you lot remind me of what we were like when Arteta first came in. Organised, determined and very defensive.
Hmmmm............... come to think of it, that's what we are still like 5 years later.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Actually when Arteta came in, after you offloaded Aubameyang and Lacazette and the likes of Saka and Smith Rowe came in, you lot were really expansive. It's only in more recent years that you've become more defensively sound. Arteta's first 2 years reminded me of the change we saw under Poch. Didn't start well but then suddenly you could start to see it working.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Gooooners wanted Arteta out for the first 18 months because he was soooo boring and defensive.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
That's just not true. They wanted him out because he wasn't getting results. There was nothing wrong with the performances then. I saw it with my own eyes. I remember one particular game on tv away at Watford, with the old guard out and Saka, Smith Rowe and a few younger lads in and the fluidity of their play made me sit up and take notice. Something was happening and it worried me, as, at the time, we were ahead of them. It really reminded me of when things started to click for us under Poch. The more functional nature of their play has only started to creep in I'd say in the last 18 months. They've become so good at set pieces, they've lost focus elsewhere, but they definitely weren't boring and defensive back then.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Not getting results off the back of scoring 55 and 56 goals in his first 2 seasons.
His first full season Arsenal had the best defence outside of the top 4 by a mile and the 2nd worst attack in the top 10. I have a couple goooony mates and one whinged the whole time about the boring defensive approach, the other less so, he loved the "trust the process" slogan...and it was a process, one that began with defensive solidity before becoming more expansive. They went on to score in the 80s and 90s.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The difference here is that attacking patterns under Arteta, Pep and Maresca, amongst a few others, are heavily coached, which is a major source of frustration for some creative players. Frank is a little different in that he coaches structure and stability but the attacking third is very much done on instinct by the players alone. It leans on the talents you have at your disposal.
The only thing I would say is that there's a few new faces in the attacking areas and they all need to get used to each other. We're defensively sound because they're both talented AND familiar with each other. Maybe it'll change as Xavi, Kudus and Muani get used to working with squad more.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 3 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 minute ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 12 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 8 minutes ago
comment by JustCallMeTed (U21528)
posted 7 minutes ago
Villarreal are a good team...that's why they're in Chumps ionship. I feel sorry for their GK.....really a schoolboy error gave us our goal.
But with our back four fit, we can ride out challenges.
We have a good squad now...likes of Bergvall and Spence and Sarr pushing forward, midfield is looking better.
I'm not convinced about Simons (XAVI). but Kudu has had some good games., particularly the PSG game.
I do wish we had a better front line now Son is gone.
we should have gotten Eze, but that's history.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
As Eze is proving at Arsenal, he's not really a left winger.
XS is also not a LW, the lad is new the team, league, country. You may not be convinced by him but give the lad a chance.
I think he's being eased in on the left before being thrown into the midfield, where Bergvall has done well.
The line-ups have had a defensive bias and i think that will change as we begin to develop and evolve under TF.
If there is one thing we all hated under Ange it is that we had to play well to get anything from games. So far we are playing OK and have 4 wins from 5.
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Is there a defensive bias? I think that's trying to justify last night's performance as somehow planned. We played with a back 4, a single pivot in midfield with Bentancur and almost two rotating 8/10s in Bergvall and Sarr. Both full backs bombed on regularly too. It wasn't a defensive set up by any means. The players just looked absolute dogshiiiit out there. It was as bizarre as the Bournemouth game. Perhaps the occasion got to them given how inexperienced a lot of them are but I don't think Frank's intentions were to sit deep and be solid. Maybe in other games with Paulinha, Bentancur and Sarr in midfield I think you're probably right. I think now maybe he's starting to see what we all see in Bergvall.
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Would you say Bents, Paulinha and Sarr vs Bournemouth is defensive, 3 attacking players on the pitch, thats about the least any team puts out in any game
Last night was a bit more offensive in that Bergvall was added to 3 attackers, but Bergvall isnt a 10 he's a CM playing in 10, so we can easily go more attacking with say XS at 10 and Odobert at LW. and i would dare say that most top teams play with 4 attackers and the likes of Palmer Wirtz Foden Odegaard Rogers are the attacking sorts behind an attacking 3. Bergvall isnt really the same type of player as these (not yet) whereas XS or Madders would be.
We have options which is great but right now we are not being overly attacking in the line ups.
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Yes, that's why I referred to the Bournemouth game.
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I said line-ups were defensively biased, and they are.
3 attackers, or 3 attackers + Bergvall/Sarr in an 8/10 is towards the bottom end of the scale in terms of an attacking line-up.
Most teams have a 4th attacker and attacking FBs.
I am not saying that the tactics were defensive, or deliberately to sit deep, but players have natural attributes and creativity isnt Sarrs and Bergvall is more of an all rounder than the likes of XS or Maddison who are far more creative, who will find the hole naturally and who are not buzzing around midfield chasing the ball but actually finding space, in dangerous areas and joining the attack or going beyond the attackers. I think Bergvall could become this, a bit more of a MGW type, in time.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
I wouldn’t be disappointed if we went to Brighton and ground out a nil nil. I think it would confirm where I think we are under Frank - he has more or less sorted the first choice defensive unit and taught the whole side how to stay tight and will over time loosen up or become a more effective attacking unit.
Last night was the perfect example of winning a tight game, we got a bit of luck with our goal and we ground out the result
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 4 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 3 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 minute ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 12 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 8 minutes ago
comment by JustCallMeTed (U21528)
posted 7 minutes ago
Villarreal are a good team...that's why they're in Chumps ionship. I feel sorry for their GK.....really a schoolboy error gave us our goal.
But with our back four fit, we can ride out challenges.
We have a good squad now...likes of Bergvall and Spence and Sarr pushing forward, midfield is looking better.
I'm not convinced about Simons (XAVI). but Kudu has had some good games., particularly the PSG game.
I do wish we had a better front line now Son is gone.
we should have gotten Eze, but that's history.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
As Eze is proving at Arsenal, he's not really a left winger.
XS is also not a LW, the lad is new the team, league, country. You may not be convinced by him but give the lad a chance.
I think he's being eased in on the left before being thrown into the midfield, where Bergvall has done well.
The line-ups have had a defensive bias and i think that will change as we begin to develop and evolve under TF.
If there is one thing we all hated under Ange it is that we had to play well to get anything from games. So far we are playing OK and have 4 wins from 5.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Is there a defensive bias? I think that's trying to justify last night's performance as somehow planned. We played with a back 4, a single pivot in midfield with Bentancur and almost two rotating 8/10s in Bergvall and Sarr. Both full backs bombed on regularly too. It wasn't a defensive set up by any means. The players just looked absolute dogshiiiit out there. It was as bizarre as the Bournemouth game. Perhaps the occasion got to them given how inexperienced a lot of them are but I don't think Frank's intentions were to sit deep and be solid. Maybe in other games with Paulinha, Bentancur and Sarr in midfield I think you're probably right. I think now maybe he's starting to see what we all see in Bergvall.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Would you say Bents, Paulinha and Sarr vs Bournemouth is defensive, 3 attacking players on the pitch, thats about the least any team puts out in any game
Last night was a bit more offensive in that Bergvall was added to 3 attackers, but Bergvall isnt a 10 he's a CM playing in 10, so we can easily go more attacking with say XS at 10 and Odobert at LW. and i would dare say that most top teams play with 4 attackers and the likes of Palmer Wirtz Foden Odegaard Rogers are the attacking sorts behind an attacking 3. Bergvall isnt really the same type of player as these (not yet) whereas XS or Madders would be.
We have options which is great but right now we are not being overly attacking in the line ups.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, that's why I referred to the Bournemouth game.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I said line-ups were defensively biased, and they are.
3 attackers, or 3 attackers + Bergvall/Sarr in an 8/10 is towards the bottom end of the scale in terms of an attacking line-up.
Most teams have a 4th attacker and attacking FBs.
I am not saying that the tactics were defensive, or deliberately to sit deep, but players have natural attributes and creativity isnt Sarrs and Bergvall is more of an all rounder than the likes of XS or Maddison who are far more creative, who will find the hole naturally and who are not buzzing around midfield chasing the ball but actually finding space, in dangerous areas and joining the attack or going beyond the attackers. I think Bergvall could become this, a bit more of a MGW type, in time.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The problem is that if you play Bergvall in the 10 position, you lose that ability he has to turn and carry the ball upfield. He's definitely a box to box 8 for me. It's crying out for Xavi in the 10 space, mainly because we don't have anyone else that can play there. Bergvall and Sarr are doing a job there but it's not their game and I think Frank knows that. We're as short there as we all though we would be. That's why this window wasn't as great as many suggest because injuries left us unbalanced. We need to decide what Xavi actually is because it's hard to call his position at the minute. Kulu's return can't come soon enough.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Phenom (U20037)
posted 43 minutes ago
we are still quite open in midfield, leading to a lot asked of CBs which doesnt seem sustainable however good they are
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This is why Xavi hasn't been asked to play there yet. He got bullied off the ball a few times yday. It would be even worse if he played in the ten.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Luka "The List" Brasi (U22178)
posted 35 minutes ago
comment by Phenom (U20037)
posted 43 minutes ago
we are still quite open in midfield, leading to a lot asked of CBs which doesnt seem sustainable however good they are
----------------------------------------------------------------------
This is why Xavi hasn't been asked to play there yet. He got bullied off the ball a few times yday. It would be even worse if he played in the ten.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Also a very, very lucky boy not to see red. Thought he was a passenger to be honest. I was hoping he was going to have a little more arrogance about him but he doesn't seem the type to demand the ball, yet.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 59 minutes ago
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The problem is that if you play Bergvall in the 10 position, you lose that ability he has to turn and carry the ball upfield. He's definitely a box to box 8 for me. It's crying out for Xavi in the 10 space, mainly because we don't have anyone else that can play there. Bergvall and Sarr are doing a job there but it's not their game and I think Frank knows that. We're as short there as we all though we would be. That's why this window wasn't as great as many suggest because injuries left us unbalanced. We need to decide what Xavi actually is because it's hard to call his position at the minute. Kulu's return can't come soon enough.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I agree
I said before we signed XS that we were having some success with Sarr pushing on as we pressed so effectively that way and anyone who comes in at 10 will need that energy/attribute as well as creativity, which is why MGW was probably the ideal man.
I think XS has to come to 10 soon enough, but its what happens behind him that is still a question mark. Sarr adds real non stop energy and pressing but lacks the baller bit, Bergvall is also energetic and quite physical and makes things tick nicely...but can he play alongside Bents or Paulinha?
Its going to be interesting to see how we find balance and no doubt it will be different combos against different opposition, but if XS is the ever present then its Paulinha, Bentancur Sarr Bergvall rotating behind him.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 41 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Solanke for his size and heading ability will prove useful now we have made set pieces a legitimate threat and are putting in a lot of crosses.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 30 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
For me his pressing is good, although not at Dom levels. His play with back to goal is where he's poor and thats where Dom would help us in games like last night as we struggled to get out of our half.
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 1 hour, 11 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never seen a comment to suggest Richy is a good passer 🤷🏻♂️
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Luka "The List" Brasi (U22178)
posted 7 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 1 hour, 11 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never seen a comment to suggest Richy is a good passer 🤷🏻♂️
----------------------------------------------------------------------
neither
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
tenacious, chithouse, good in the air, capable of a great finish
bout it
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Luka "The List" Brasi (U22178)
posted 29 minutes ago
comment by fridgeboy (U1053)
posted 1 hour, 11 minutes ago
comment by Devonshirespur (U6316)
posted 1 hour, 18 minutes ago
comment by Spurtle (U1608)
posted 2 minutes ago
There are things to iron out and improve on and even then we're going to need to add more quality but I don't think we as Spurs fans have too much to complain about at the moment, not since the Europa win - we ended our trophy drought, got rid of Ange and replaced with Frank, had a good window (despite various disappointments during it), got rid of Levy, and are having a better start to the season than I think most thought.
The defence looks more solid and that was what we needed to be addressed most. I expect the attacking side that has somewhat been lacking at times, will come as Frank starts figuring out who works best where. Simons seems wasted out on the wing but I can see why he was tried there last night. Another LW will be needed. With any luck Savinho or an equal upgrade next window.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I think Solanke returning will add something too. Much more a Frank type FWD than the other 2 and in games like last night he becomes a more reliable outlet, either springing out on the counter or retaining possession.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Agree with this. The biggest fallacy amongst the fan base is that Richy isa good presser. He's nothing of the sort. He tries, but he's not mobile or athletic enough to press consistently. That said, he's better in the air than Dom.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never seen a comment to suggest Richy is a good passer 🤷🏻♂️
----------------------------------------------------------------------
someone should have gone to specsavers
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
Second half we were out played but remained solid at the back and rode our luck.
---
Yeah was pretty annoying how Villarreal spotted they could just shut off Bergvall and Sarr from getting the ball. It took Frank way too long IMO to make the switch to a double pivot - better teams would've punished us more. But also more experienced midfielders would've been dropping deep to help out Bentancur. Big learning curve for Frank and the players.
Still, a win's a win and hopefully they carry the learning into the next game
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
Also I thought Bentancur was struggling on his own anyway. You can't run through treacle and be weak in the tackle. If we're gonna do 4141 it needs to be Palhinha there. IMO
posted 1 week, 3 days ago
comment by Bãleș left boot - Palhinha my goat (U22081)
posted 1 hour, 4 minutes ago
Also I thought Bentancur was struggling on his own anyway. You can't run through treacle and be weak in the tackle. If we're gonna do 4141 it needs to be Palhinha there. IMO
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Yeah I don’t think Bentancur is the same after those injuries, he just seems ponderous at times and can’t really drive with the ball anymore.
I definitely think the next big upgrade, assuming we can’t get an elite striker, is to ship out Bents and Biss and get another really good 8 in. I’m assuming with that we sign Palhinha permanently and Gray is being groomed into a 6 as well
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
We've got an elite striker, he's just playing for Oxford right now
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
Well, you'll all hate me for saying this, but.......
you know who would turn this squad into a real contender?
Guess!
Answer i next post.
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
Harry Kane.
Yes, and he's getting on too!
Banging them in for you know who.
We might meet them on our way...
posted 1 week, 2 days ago
Son scored a hatrick in the MLS
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