Tottenham Hotspur undoubtedly had a positive campaign last season. They finished “best of the rest” in fifth, behind the “big four” of Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd. However, with several big-name summer signings confirmed and an ambitious manager in Martin Ho still in place, the team will be looking to improve on that this time around.
I think they can do it. And, frankly, there is room for improvement. Data analysis from TwelveFootball’s Earpiece tool shows that the team’s attack was average.
The defence was blockbuster either.
However, in a 12-team league, particularly one in which there was one especially poor side (Leicester), that was enough. It provides something to build on.
The one big improvement there needs to be, and we say this every season, is results against the “big four”. Spurs had opportunities to beat Man United last season, but didn’t take advantage. They held out for a 0-0 draw against Arsenal at home, but got beaten 5-2 at The Emirates. They received similar hammerings from Chelsea and Man City. It is not possible to progress if you are essentially giving up eight matches a season. (I don’t believe this is how Ho or his squad think, but the results are the results.)
New Arrivals Bring New Hope to Tottenham Hotspur Women
Tottenham Hotspur Women have done some serious work in the transfer market, bringing in a number of excellent players. We have started to see what they can contribute during pre-season.
The one I am perhaps most excited about is Kirsty Hanson. As the data from TwelveFootball’s Earpiece tool show, her finishing is exceptional. She is also strong at involving other teammates.
Hanson may even prove to be more prolific than the departed Beth England.
Shekiera Martinez is another exciting attacking arrival. She is a bit of a better poacher than Hanson.
Along with Cathinka Tandberg, these three should offer a significant attacking threat for Tottenham Hotspur Women. When you add in having the likes of Olivia Holdt and Signe Gaupset behind them, with Jess Naz and Maite Oroz also on the way back, it’s pretty exciting. The whole team needs to better at taking chances, though. Too many were wasted last season.
The standout defensive recruit is Alice Sombath. She is a dominant, aggressive defender who is very strong in the air and reduces the chances opponents get. A big addition to the backline.
Unfortunately, she has not featured during pre-season, and we don’t really know why yet.
Overall Prediction
Spurs should absolutely not finish below fifth. They have better players alongside a core that are now used to playing Martin Ho’s way. With managerial disruption at Man Utd, they may even be able to knock them out of the top group.
The big caveat to this is a cup run. The lack of Champions League teams in the Subway Players Cup provides a real opening. Victory in the FA Cup would be game-changing. Far more significant than the difference between finishing 5th, 6th or 7th. If European qualification slips away, it might just be worth focussing on as the season goes on…