Match Threads Spurs vs Middlesbrough - FA Cup 3rd Round (Replay)

[Japhet]

Decent first half, poor second. Disappointing how even against lower opposition we couldn't control possession (Winks!).

Wanted to see RS attack the fullback, but once again he seemed happier to play the safe pass.

Jan continues to look very unhappy.

Continue to be surprised at just how careless we are with the ball.

Why single out Winks when virtually every player was guilty of giving the ball away at some point, and many of them did it multiple times?

 

[Timberwolf]

That spell at the end of the 2nd half was the best possession football we've played in probably about 18 months. Funny what happens when you pick a team of technical players who are comfortable receiving the ball and don't give it away at the first opportunity (Dier excepted).

I was always hoping Poch would go in that direction and that'd we'd assemble more of a technical, passing, Man City style system with the likes of Lo Celso, Eriksen, Lamela and Ndombele linking up the midfield and attack. Instead all we got the bastard diamond with Sissoko and Alli bumbling the ball away every 5 seconds.

With each passing week I'm really struggling to see how Alli is keeping his place in the team. Sure, the opposition were shite last night, but we moved and retained the ball so much more naturally and intelligently without him on the pitch. Son is guilty of poor technique and some cheap giveaways too but at least he provides pace and moments of world class quality. In a deeper position (i.e not a second striker) Alli provides neither of these and I'm finally losing patience - I think he's a detriment to us at the moment and really should not be a guaranteed starter.

 

[Nebby]

Why single out Winks when virtually every player was guilty of giving the ball away at some point, and many of them did it multiple times?

Because I expect more from him in terms of controlling the game.