Three reasons Tottenham has supporters believing about return to ECL
By Gary Pearson
Through sheer will power and a turn in form, Tottenham have supporters once again believing about returning to the Champions League.
Watching Tottenham can be equal parts joyful and agonizing. The last few weeks has certainly been chockfull of the former, as Antonio Conte has his team firing on all cylinders at the most important time of the year.
A lot can happen in the final two months of the season, but at least Tottenham’s fate is in their own hands. Beat Arsenal, continue their rich vein of form and fourth spot is theirs to lose. It’s been a staggering turn of fortune and the Lilywhites deserve heaps of praise for the way they’ve acquitted themselves lately.
Here’s three reasons Tottenham have managed to elevate their overall level of play and springboard to the top or the Champions League conversation.
3. Everyone member of the squad is contributing
Even with a few key injuries — Ryan Sessegnon, Sergio Reguilon, Oliver Skipp — Spurs are getting solid contributions from each player. The front three have been terrific, the defensive trio solid as a rock and the midfield has dominated in recent weeks.
A few players have risen to the top, showcasing their top form at exactly the right time, but the key variable is there has been no weak links. Matthew Doherty is the best example of a player who is contributing to a level beyond anyone’s expectations. He has shown his true character when it matters most and he isn’t the only one.
Those coming off the bench — including Steven Bergwijn, Lucas Moura, even Harry Winks to some extent — are making the most of their minutes. Bergwijn enjoyed a dominant week with Holland and extended that form against Newcastle, when he scored after just entering the scene.
Look across Spurs roster and you’ll be hard pressed to find a player not carrying their weight. This will have to continue if Spurs are to secure fourth spot.
2. Fabio Paratici and his transfer masterstrokes
Let’s be honest. We wouldn’t be fighting for a top four spot if it weren’t for Dejan Kulusevski, Rodrigo Bentancur and, looking slightly further into the past, Cristian Romero. The recent additions are three of the most integral members of Tottenham’s first team. Each player has adapted incredibly well to the Premier League, all of whom are excelling in their respective roles.
Paratici, take a bow. Bringing three players in who’ve enjoyed almost immediate success in the most demanding league is no easy feat.
1. Antonio Conte’s revolution
What this man has contributed to Tottenham Hotspur is nothing short of otherworldly. He consistently gets the best out of every player. Look at Eric Dier and Ben Davies as two prime examples. Conte’s impact on those two key figures has facilitated Tottenham’s resurgence, allowing supporters to once again dream of Champions League football.
Conte’s man management skills are one of his strongest attributes. But I’d be remiss not to mention his passion and sheer will to win. Never has a manager demanded so much of his players. His passion and forthright demeanour is contagious. Win or lose, we know where Conte stands, or, more aptly, paces. It’s refreshing to see a manager so engaged, so dedicated and devoted to the project he’s committed to.
For that, Tottenham supporters will be forever grateful. While everyone associated with the football is clamouring to get back to the Champions League, there’s nobody more deserving than Conte. And that’s saying something considering how briefly he’s been at the club.