The Rise of The Hotspurs

When the transfer window closed this season, there was much criticism directed at the manager. Many believed that Pochetino hadn't done enough to push Levy to bring in the players he needed. There had been no additions to the roles of striker and central defensive midfield- two areas that Spurs were found lacking.

There was no back up for Kane and the fact that our central defensive midfielder was actually a centre back didn't ooze confidence. Many were also critical of the pre season tours, complaining that our players hadn't got enough rest. The critics went to "I told you so" mode when Kane failed to find the net in the opening games.

But now after 14 games and a 13 match unbeaten streak, even his greatest critics are applauding Mauricio Pochettino. The change he has brought to the team is incredible. He has cut out the dead wood and removed the poisonous weeds. He tilled the ground and sowed fresh seeds. No wonder he is reaping the dividends.

Some might say that Lady Luck has favoured him. After all Kane was able to maintain his form and fitness. Well, that was not what most of us thought when Kane was facing a goal drought in the beginning of the season. But Pochettino kept faith in his striker and the forward shone because of it.

It is to Spurs' credit that they have been able to maintain their unbeaten run even after a string of injuries to crucial players. Chadli, Bentaleb and Pritchard are still recovering whereas Eriksen, Dembele, Mason, Lamela and Son have all had their share of injury woes.

Spurs owe most of their success this season to the transfer window. Pochettino remoulded the team to his liking by "not buying for the sake of buying". With the help of Vertonghen, he was able to add Alderweireld to the team and we all know how crucial that signing has been. The Belgian duo have formed a formidable pairing and have been a brick wall in central defence.

The addition of Wimmer and Trippier has given Pochettino more options at the back while Son and Njie have strengthened the midfield and also proved to be effective covers for Kane.

But our best buy was undoubtedly Dele Alli from MKDons in the January window. The teenager was the catch of the season and has stunned everyone with his brilliant performance. He has shown skill and maturity surpassing his years and will surely go a long way.

The rebranding of Dier as a central defensive midfielder has now been hailed as Mauricio's masterstroke. Clearly the decision has put opponent teams in Dier-stress. He has mixed aggression and defence very well and exelled in his new role. The fact that he is yet to reach his peak is heartening.

While these have been factors of Spurs' success, the most important factor is the team spirit. Finally we have a Tottenham "Team". Its no longer about a Bale or a Modric. The Spurs are finally a team. "One for all, all for one" is the new motto in the Spurs dressing room. The work ethic has been brilliant and the team morale is in cloud nine. The transformations of Dembele and Lamela "from boys to men" have been remarkable. Add to it the clinical precision of Eriksen, the creativity of Mason and the penetrative runs of Walker and Rose and we have a deadly attack.

Lloris, who has not lost a league match this season, has lead from the front( or from the back as some might say). He has pulled off spectacular match winning saves this season and has played his part to perfection.

And with Pochettino giving chances to academy youths like Carroll, Winks and Onomah, we surely have a bright young future ahead of us.

COYS






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