Defensive issues at Chelsea for Tottenham bigger than individual mistakes

Tottenham lacks the depth to compete at the top level

The harsh reality is that if Tottenham were going to beat the Blues at Stamford Bridge, Spurs just blew a big chance. If there was a time to take it to Chelsea, when the Blues are missing Ben Chilwell, N’Golo Kante, Thiago Silva, and Eduardo Mendy is the time to do so.

Unfortunately, as Chelsea was able to find players to step up in those absences, Tottenham was not able to do likewise.

With Eric Dier out, the defence was rudderless. Hugo Lloris played solid enough and had some big moments. However, absent one well-remembered historic outburst at Son, Lloris is not a vocal leader. Without Dier, the organization and stability were simply not the same.

The fact Joe Rodon did not see a minute, despite being Dier’s back-up, speaks volumes. As does the inability to have any real, recognized cover for the left side of the pitch. Ben Davies is the only player on the left that is consistently available, as both Ryan Sessegnon and Sergio Reguilón miss time frequently.  Matt Doherty at left wing-back simply is not going to cut it.

While the team has done well for a while without Cristian Romero, when facing better teams, it is clear even one more injury or hardship is one too many for a team that just does not have enough top defenders to compete with the top three now.