Tottenham’s defence: The toughest nut to crack

Tottenham’s defence is head and shoulders above the rest of the league this season, dominating almost every category of consequence. 

The 2016-17 Spurs edition could write the textbook on how to collectively defend. And it shows in the numbers.

So much is made of Spurs’ prolific offensive.

Dele Alli is closing in on 20 top-flight goals, Harry Kane would have already eclipsed that total had he not missed chunks of the season. Son Heung-Min is on 18 goals in all competitions and Christian Eriksen has chipped in with a moderate seven of his own.

As you can see, there is ample reason to celebrate Tottenham’s tremendous offensive prowess. Absurdly, Spurs defence is as good, maybe even better than their potent attack.

Tottenham’s defensive statistics

Tottenham lead the Premier League in goals against, home goals against, total clean sheets and home clean sheets. It’s a staggering catalogue of impressive statistics.

Delving deeper into the vast analytical ocean, Spurs have conceded 22 goals in 31 matches, two fewer than second-best Manchester United. Chelsea, who have conceded 25 goals, are the only other Premier League side below 30.

Manchester City, with 35 goals allowed, are next best.

Continuing with the goals against motif, Spurs have conceded a paltry eight goals in 16 home matches, by far the least overall. Lagging well behind, Chelsea have conceded 11 goals at Stamford Bridge.

Everton, allowing 12 goals at Goodison, are third on that list.

Now on to clean sheets, where, unsurprisingly, Spurs take top honours once more. Tottenham have accumulated 14 clean sheets so far, almost one every two games. Scored on less than a nun in a covenant, Tottenham edge Chelsea by a single clean sheet.

To put into context how masterful their collective defence is, Spurs have one more clean sheet than Sunderland, Swansea and Hull combined.

Saving the best for last, let’s move on to Spurs’ home shutouts. Tottenham secure a clean sheet in 63 percent of their matches at White Hart Lane. With 10 clean sheets at the Lane thus far, Tottenham’s home defensive dominance is utterly stupefying.

Next: Spurs could be crowded out in chase for Ryan Sessegnon

When you look up the definition of “fortress” on Google (because who looks at a dictionary these days), you’ll swiftly see an imperious picture of White Hart Lane staring menacingly back at you.

Bournemouth, who have been kept off the score sheet five times on their travels, are next to try penetrate Spurs at the Lane.

Pochettino and his Tottenham side take offence to the mere notion and will defend their fortress accordingly.