Spurs have won nine of their 12 Premier League outings.
Gary Mabbutt has told Love Sport Radio that Tottenham Hotspur have strengthened their title credentials by adapting to win ugly, following narrow wins over Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Spurs currently sit in fourth position in the Premier League after 12 matches, of which Mauricio Pochettino’s side have won nine – losing to Manchester City, Liverpool and Watford.
Goals have been popping up from everywhere, with the reliance on Harry Kane somewhat lifted. Juan Foyth scored against Palace, while Lucas Moura and Erik Lamela also got goals in the 3-2 win over Wolves – with Kane scoring too.
Former Tottenham captain Mabbutt reckons Mauricio Pochettino has finally taught his side how to win ugly, whereas before the north Londoners had to play well in order to obtain three points.
“We used to be the team that when we were on the top of our form, we’d go out and play teams off the park,” Mabbutt said. “But when we weren’t playing well, we’d throw away points.
“What the team is showing now, is tremendous character. When things aren’t particularly going our way, or the ball isn’t flowing around the field, we’re still scraping together three points. For me, I’ve been delighted with that.”
It sees Spurs remain above north London rivals Arsenal and just five points off the top of the Premier League, where Manchester City currently reside after a near-perfect start once again under Pep Guardiola.
The majority of Spurs’ side are currently away on international duty, with Kane joined by Eric Dier, Harry Winks and Dele Alli in the England squad, meanwhile Moussa Sissoko joins Hugo Lloris after his France recall. Foyth and Paulo Gazzaniga are in line for their first Argentina caps, alongside Lamela.
When all reconvene at Spurs, the focus will switch to a hugely important Premier League clash against third-placed Chelsea at Wembley.
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