Playing two up front can help cure what ails Tottenham
By Gary Pearson
There is no magic cure for Tottenham’s current malaise, but starting two up front will relieve pressure at the back while helping Mauricio Pochettino’s side play more consistently on the front foot.
Veering well away from starting two up front, Pochettino has remained steadfast in his stubbornness to play Harry Kane in silo. Spurs’ talisman isn’t completely on an island, as a supporting player, like Son Heung-Min, isn’t too far in his rearview.
Based on recent anemic offensive offerings and a desire to see a more concerted, formidable attack, a striking duo of Kane and Son is worth trying. It won’t solve Tottenham’s defensive dilemma, but any good defence is built on a strong attack.
Kane and Son can overlap and use the bylines to create more space for Lucas Moura and Erik Lamela, both of whom have the pace and trickery to effectively utilize the width of the pitch.
Son enjoyed great success playing up front when Kane was injured last season. As long as Kane and Son play to each other’s strengths, the pair would cause fits for opposing defences. Playing both up front would mean Tottenham would have to shift gears slightly and rely less on playing intricately from the back.
This proposed philosophy belies Pochettino’s playing style, but you know what they say about desperate times. The new system would also help Paulo Gazzaniga ease into the side, diminishing the pressure that comes with being asked to play delicately from the back.
He can knock it long more often and leave it up to Kane and Son to harry the opposing defence. Let Tanguy Ndombele and Harry Winks win the ball back and earn their paycheques through facets of the game they both excel at.
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Teething problems might arise with the new system, but employing the option will give the opposition something else to think about.
Tottenham’s attack has become telegraphed and predictable. Our full backs simply aren’t good enough to execute the manager’s current game plan, so take the stress off of them and pile it on players who can excel under heightened pressure.