Five ways Richarlison immediately makes Tottenham Hotspur better
By Aaron Coe
Richarlison provides another long-ball target
Over the last two seasons, Kane has become more of a play-making attacker. A big part of his success in creating opportunities has been his ability to find the perfect through ball, ask Leicester City.
With Steven Bergwijn likely heading out the door, Son remained the primary over-the-top threat for Spurs. Richarlison changes that, and the Brazilian’s ability to time runs and get behind defenders should make Spurs’ counter-attack all the more dangerous.
Having a second over-the-top threat should mean more space in the midfield, whether for Kane, Dejan Kulusevski, or others occupying the area.
Pace keeps the defence on its heels, and Richarlison has speed to burn, giving Spurs another major attacking threat.
Richarlison is an actual defensive presence
Maybe one of the most endearing characteristics of Richarlison is his relentless without the ball. While Tottenham is not returning to the full-throttle days of Mauricio Pochettino anytime soon, having a forward that can effectively press and pressure the ball is essential.
Interestingly for a forward, Richarlison makes more tackles and more clearances per match than he does dribbles, according to whoscored.com. Such is the commitment to defence from the Brazilian.
As fans know, ball pressure, especially in the attacking half, can create many opportunities for a team. With Richarlison on board, Spurs can play with more pressure and have the option to turn up the heat on opposing defences.
A front three with Richarlison, Kulusevski, and Lucas Moura may sound strange, but it would be a rough day for ball-playing defenders.