What Tottenham Hotspur could look like with a back three

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LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 26: Bryan Gil of Tottenham Hotspur and Jorge Silva of Pacos De Ferreira in action during the UEFA Conference League Play-Offs Leg Two match between Tottenham Hotspur and Pacos de Ferreira at on August 26, 2021, in London, England. (Photo by Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images) /

Spurs in a 3-5-2 formation

At first, the idea of a 3-5-2 seems overly defensive like a 5-3-2 does. However, if used well, a 3-5-2 can be a very balanced shape that could provide Tottenham a real alternative in attack, without sacrificing defense.

Whereas the 3-4-3 means Tottenham could end up short in the midfield – like last season – when help is needed out on the wing, in a 3-5-2, there is always that extra midfielder to help cover the gaps in the middle of the park. The potential for either Dier or Sanchez to get the team completely out of shape getting lost alone in space is greatly reduced from that extra body.

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While the 5-3-2 is a bit too conservative for this author’s taste, in a 3-5-2 you could really see some effective play out on the wings providing an alternative to the driving runs of a Lucas or Bergwijn. Instead, someone like Bryan could thrive running up and down the flank with nothing but space and room to take on players.

On the other side, either Emerson, Japhet Tanganga, and Doherty can all knock in a solid ball. While the team loses a striker in this formation from the 4-3-3- they currently run. If someone is injured or they just need an alternative look, knocking balls into Kane and Son s not the worst idea in the world. Add in some room for some mazy dribbles to operate and the 3-5-2 could be a real alternative option when the occasion calls.

What do you think, what might the Spurs look like with three in the back?

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