Tottenham Hotspur should consider switching formation.
Tottenham Hotspur’s shift to playing three at the back during the latter half of last season was so successful they carried it on this campaign.
Spurs even spent a record fee on Davinson Sanchez, with the set aim that he plays a key role as one of their three central defenders.
But over the last fortnight the team’s form has dipped, for a number of reasons, but Toby Alderweireld’s injury is a central one.
Alderweireld’s injury has left Spurs stretched when it comes to picking three central defenders.
Summer signing Juan Foyth is deemed not ready for Premier League action by his manager, meaning Eric Dier shifts to play in defence.
With Victor Wanyama injured and Tottenham playing Dier in defence, Spurs are not only without Alderweireld – they are without their best two defensive midfielders, exposing their three man defence further.
This is why it makes sense right now to revert to a more standard 4-5-1 or 4-2-3-1 formation, with two central defenders.
It would give both full-backs more focus on defending, while the return of winger Erik Lamela can help them stretch opponents.
There are other problems facing Spurs, the loss of form by both Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli, but fixing their defence must be the first port of call.
Reverting back to a four man defensive unit would be a simply move, and doesn’t have to be a long-term one, but it could be wise this weekend when they travel to Watford.
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