Issues in a Dier Tottenham defence

By grvadmin

Are Tottenham carrying on from last season with the same defensive issues and problems? While there are issues surrounding Mauricio Pochettino’s back-four, Spurs fans can take positives from the weekend’s win over West Ham.

Kaboul proved a disappointment

Being captain is a immensely important position for the team, but the French defender didn’t organise that defence at all. When put under pressure he lost his concentration and awareness.

He can be good on his day, if his concentration is on point. But like most of our defence he is inconsistent. There is no doubting his qualities, however at this time he cannot be trusted.

Is Kaboul a liability? Yes – much like Michael Dawson, Kyle Naughton and to some extent Danny Rose. Which brings me to questioning our centre-back pairing for the game against QPR. We have to put Vertonghen back in the heart of that defence, it’s a must!

Either Lloris or Jan Vertonghen have to be made captain, with Dier alongside the Belgian. However, there are also the question marks regarding Naughton, who is out for 3 matches due to suspension, unless his card is successfully appealed.

Who replaces Naughton?

If Walker is fit enough then he should play, however I just can’t see him being available. There are rumours circulating that he may be out until after the international break, so if he doesn’t play who is actually suitable to replace him?

Fredericks is an option; he played brilliantly in the Europa league, but is the Premier League too much of a step-up?

Who can play there?

• Kaboul (No thanks)
• Dier
• Fredricks

Players who did well:

• Townsend: Great driving runs, was very effective. Townsend will start in place of Lennon against QPR
• Lloris: World class! Great saves, playing in front of a poor defense. Swept up when needed.
• Dier: Excellent goal, but his defensive play was marvellous. Eric looked twice the player of Dawson and Kaboul.
• Capoue: Best defensive midfielder at the club, interception, after interception!

My ideal team to face Queens Park Rangers next weekend:

Lloris, Davies, Vertonghen, Dier, Fredricks, Holtby, Capoue
Eriksen, Townsend, Lamela and Adebayor.

Do you agree with Zarak’s observations, is the Spurs back-four riddled with problems? How do you think the Lilywhites will line-up versus QPR next weekend? Join the discussion in the comment section below or on Twitter @TBRFootball.com.