Leeds match offered more evidence why Conte favours Tottenham attacker

Tottenham’s second half comeback against Leeds showed that a number of players are ready to join Antonio Conte in the long battle ahead.

As Emerson Royal was easily beaten and both Ben Davies and Sergio Reguilon were powerless to stop Daniel James from burying Jack Harrison‘s low and powerful cross, you could feel the mood inside Tottenham Hotspur Stadium sour.

The away end on the corner of the North Stand erupted, sending thousands of home fans into the bar prematurely, before the halftime whistle. The bemused fanbase was clearly frustrated with Tottenham’s rotten first half display.

Spurs were deservedly trailing in Antonio Conte’s first home Premier League fixture, something supporters have grown far too familiar with.

The abject first half was expected after another international break which saw most of the starting 11 disappear for two weeks, some of whom returning injured. While a number of players whose presence wasn’t required for their countries benefitted from a fortnight of intense Conte training, the lack of overall cohesion was clear in the opening 45.

Too many players were unconfident in their own ability, preferring to play backwards. Slow, lethargic football that has typified Tottenham’s plight was on full display.

Whatever Conte said at halftime had an instant impact on his team. A Tottenham Hotspur side fit for purpose entered the fray. Quicker movement, dynamic running, far more confidence and enthusiasm helped Spurs turn the game on its head.