Tottenham Hotspur season may have been saved by January moves

Tottenham got two gems in January

Fabio Paratici, plucking two squad players from his former employer, Juventus, may have looked a bit desperate. However, Paratici knew what he was getting, which has saved Spurs season. What Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur have provided has been necessary for the success the team is starting to see.

Kulusevski completes the front three

In many ways, Kulusevski is a mix of his two new striking partners, Harry Kane and Heung-min Son. Kulusevski has the classic size of a striker like Kane and can use that ability to play hold-up football and maintain possession, even under pressure. Like Son, Deki can run at players with the ball and go either direction, making him a real danger.

With his size, touch, and ability on the ball, Kulusevski is genuinely a gifted technical player who, at just 21 years of age, also has the tactical football ability to put those skills to good use. Kulusevski is also a student of the game and understands football dynamics, making him the perfect fit with Kane and Son.

Bentancur has saved Spurs midfield

While Paratici had no way of knowing Oliver Skipp would be injured/ill/out for two-plus months, he knew Conte needed reinforcements in the centre of the park, and with Rodrigo Bentancur, Paratici delivered.

I cringe just thinking of what the last month would have been like with only Harry Winks to partner with Pierre Hojbjerg. Instead, Spurs have a budding field general in the middle of the park. While Hojbjerg brings intensity, Bentancur brings the team to the next level of football calm and understanding.

Bentancur plays with the same controlled demeanour, whether at the top of his box or the opponents. That assuredness is something this team has been lacking since Mousa Dembele left N17 and is undoubtedly a welcome addition.

It may have only been two players in and four out, but now it is clear that the moves from January have set Tottenham up to have a chance at the top four.