Tottenham Hotspur player ratings from bounce back win over Leeds in EPL

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LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Dejan Kulusevski of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates after scoring their side’s first goal during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road on February 26, 2022, in Leeds, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /

Tottenham midfield ratings

The two central midfielders were the players everyone expected, with Hojbjerg and Harry Winks getting the call. And while many likely expected both Heung-min Son and Dejan Kulusevski to play, most probably thought they would be positioned a bit further forward from the start. Regardless of the formation, the plan and play worked for Spurs well.

Left attacking midfield – Heung-min Son – 7.5

Playing a deeper role than he often does, Son started on the left defensively but worked underneath Kane in possession. Son provided some sound hold-up play, earning a few free kicks and taking advantage of Leeds’ man-to-man approach. He was finally rewarded for his hard work getting on the end of an excellent forward ball from Kane and finishing well on the break.

Centre-midfield – Pierre Hojbjerg – 7.5

With the team in need of a good performance and some leadership, Hojbjerg delivered. He was working hard throughout to win the ball back and looking to move it forward. Hojbjerg had an excellent assist on a beautiful dink from about 30 yards out to Kane right after winning the ball in the middle of the park. It was the kind of performance that Spurs need from the Viking.

Centre-midfield – Harry Winks – 7

With Rodrigo Bentancur injured and Oliver Skipp still in recovery from a knock of his own, Harry Winks would always start. Winks paid dividends early with the hockey assist on Spurs’ first goal. Winks did well to take the ball and dribble forward and then play Sessegnon in with a nice through ball. Winks was more aggressive defensively as well, particularly in the first half. Quiet in the second half as the ball moved long in both directions, often bypassing the midfield.

Right attacking midfield – Dejan Kulusevski – 8

Playing on the right of the midfield ahead of Matt Doherty, Dejan Kulusevski shows he is ready for the Premier League. Kulusevski used some nifty footwork and a sublime near-post rocket to score his second in three starts. The goal was precisely the kind of play fans were led to expect from Decki coming into the team with the big left-footed attacker cutting in from the wide right. Willing to draft on defence, Kulusevski is a clear fit for Conte’s desires.