Will Tottenham bounce back against Brighton in the Premier League?

The old cliche that Tottenham’s next match is the most important of the season takes on an entirely different meaning after their midweek debacle. 

The question everyone wants the answer to is whether Spurs will bounce back and show the character that took them all the way to last season’s Champions League final. Or, contrastingly, will Mauricio Pochettino’s side capitulate like they did in the second half against Bayern on Tuesday?

While I’m hoping the former is true, there are no signs to indicate a resurgence is on the horizon.

Doom and gloom, both in the press and reportedly behind the scenes, has blanketed Hotspur Way. Shattered confidence and palpable tension is currently commonplace in Spurs camp. Usually under such disconsolate circumstances one would rely on Pochettino to reinvigorate his reeling squad. One has to worry whether the gaffer, who appeared disconnected and withdrawn during Spurs’ post mortem midweek, has the capacity to galvanize his squad.

Reports suggests the squad is in disarray, with some senior players, including Moussa Sissoko, questioning Pochettino’s tactics.

Why has Pochettino gone away from a consistent high press? Why is he playing Moussa and Tanguy together in midfield? Why does he persist with Harry Winks, who is struggling mightily, in the lone defensive midfield role? And why is Serge Aurier even considered as a starting right back, particularly after repeatedly poor performances in both the Champions and Premier League since arriving from France?

I would say that’s ample reason to question the gaffer’s recent decision-making.

With all that negative hysteria, it’s hard to imagine Tottenham will come out firing on all cylinders on Saturday afternoon.

However, we must remember these are professionals who ooze pride and self-importance. Egos bruised and mental states compromised, it’s time the lads show what they’re made of. If not for the manager, then for the millions of supporters around the world that bleed for their team no matter what transpires behind the scenes.

Supporters can accept misgivings, mistakes and poor performances. What we cannot accept is our team folding like a bunch of cheap lawn chairs. We won’t have it. And hopefully our beloved Lilywhites show their true character on Saturday.

Anything else is simply inconceivable.