Before the North London Derby, Paul Robinson - former Tottenham goalkeeper repeated the saying that many people agree with at the moment: "With Spurs, we never know what will happen." However, the reality is increasingly clear, especially in the domestic league when Ange Postecoglou's team is increasingly predictable.
The 1-2 defeat to Arsenal in midweek was a typical example. Tottenham showed a deadlock against an opponent with a tight defense. The disjointed, uncreative combinations and lack of any signs of them penetrating the Gunners' defence. The players passed the ball back and forth, sometimes bringing the ball to the corner of the field and losing control.
However, there is no denying Arsenal's excellence. Even when conceding, Mikel Arteta's team still maintained their steadiness and were not confused.
After Postecoglou's impressive start with 26 points after the first 10 matches of last season, Tottenham fell into a state of decline. Currently, they have only won 5 points in the last 9 matches, ranking 18th on the performance rankings at this stage.
Ange Postecoglou is not a strange name in the coaching world. Although tournaments that have worked such as the A-League, J-League or Scotland premiership are not highly appreciated, his achievements cannot be underestimated.
In each place, Postecoglou has faced doubts and familiar criticisms such as: "He needs to change the playing style", "This art is ineffective" or "No plan B". Every time like that, the Australian coach proved the opposite.
A typical example is his time at Celtic, where Postecoglou helped the team dominate the Scottish league with modern ball control play. This has fans wondering if he can do the same in a much harsher tournament like the Premier League?
Injuries have been a factor in Tottenham's poor run. The loss of key players such as the main goalkeeper, central defender and recently left-back has disrupted the squad. In addition, with a thin reserve force, the remaining Spurs players have to work continuously, easily leading to fatigue and decline in form.
The question is whether Postecoglou's playing style, which requires high intensity and speed, is the cause of fitness problems? Although previous tournaments have not recorded this, the Premier League with its clear harsh nature creates a bigger challenge.
Another problem is the team transfer and management strategy of president Daniel Levy. The "Roosters" entered the season with only 3 central defenders and 1 reserve goalkeeper with a completely different style compared to the main goalkeeper. Contracts like Arnaut Danjuma or Manor Solomon are not enough to fill the void that the team needs.
According to The Guardian, Tottenham fans are loyal to the head coach. The low salary compared to revenue shows the lack of ambition of the team's leadership.
If looking back in the past, Ange Postecoglou has overcome difficulties many times to create a miracle. Tottenham need to continue to be patient and give the 59-year-old strategist time to build the team. Positive signs from his ball control style of play and his ability to develop young players are reasons to be trusted.
In the worst case, Spurs will still be an average team for the next few years, something that fans are all too familiar with. However, if successful, Postecoglou could help Tottenham write a new chapter for the London team.
