The three starting centre backs
Joe Rodon
It’s time for Joe Rodon to take centre stage in Spurs’ rearguard. Other than the Round of 16 match against Denmark, Rodon performed admirably at Euro 2020. He made 12 appearances for Spurs last season. If Rodon can eradicate personal errors, he can be an instrumental part of Tottenham’s backline. The Welshman is lacking breakneck pace, which, in tandem with the aging Toby Alderweireld, is concerning.
But his progression since arriving at Hotspur Way last year is clear and Rodon deserves a chance to show his worth in the starting team. He is still only 23 years old, a perfect age to show he is capable of making the jump to consistent first team football. In this scenario, Rodon would be forced to play on the right side of a back three, an uncustomary role for the Welshman. But he has the ability to adapt and showcase his strengths playing just to the right of Alderweireld.
Toby Alderweireld
Toby’s future at Spurs is certainly in doubt. But Tottenham should do their utmost to keep the Belgian stalwart at the club for at least one more season. He is an integral part of any current Tottenham rearguard. Experienced, responsible and consistent, Toby is the backbone who would stabilize his two centre back partners.
If Toby leaves, Tottenham must have a suitable replacement in place prior to offloading the 32-year-old.
Ben Davies
Another Welshman rounds off the back three. Ben Davies has previous experience on the left side of a back three, though he didn’t enjoy his best performances as a left-sided centre back. However, he can definitely do the job when needed. He is by no means an ideal option, but Spurs are better off going with Davies than allowing Davinson Sanchez or Eric Dier back into the starting team.
Japhet Tanganga offers another option. He could play on the right side of the three with Rodon swinging out to the left side, but Davies is defensively capable enough to patrol the left side of a centre back three.