Tottenham Hotspur at center-half for the 2021/22 season
By Aaron Coe
The center-half position was one that saw more transition than most in the summer but questions remain if Tottenham has the depth they need.
The rebuild at Tottenham Hotspur was more of a scalpel trimming and slicing than it was an ax making major changes. Outside of goalkeeper, the one position that saw some real change for Tottenham Hotspur was one that needed it, the center-back position.
With two permanent departures – Juan Foyth and Toby Alderweireld – one new addition – Cristian Romero – and one late loan out – Cameron Carter-Vickers, the overall position is one in flux, although there has been real consistency in the team to start the Premier League season.
Dier and Sanchez better than we remember?
To start the season Nuno Espirito Santo has not really changed the pieces in the middle of the defense, with Colombian Davinson Sanchez filling in for the departed Alderweireld, next to the returning Eric Dier.
The organization of the players around Dier and Sanchez has allowed the pair to play with more confidence and better positioning. The result has been a more stout defense, which has allowed fewer looks and big opportunities at the goal. Spending less time covering for others out of position has also led to fewer fouls in bad spots on the pitch.
Both are reliable passers and decent enough in the air Dier and Sanchez still have their weaknesses but are better than average defenders. If their mistakes can be kept to a minimum and they are allowed to breathe a bit more than last season, Dier and Sanchez can do a good job for Spurs weekly.