Jamie O’Hara says Richarlison ‘isn’t enjoying his football’ at Tottenham Hotspur.
The 26-year-old is yet to get off the mark for Ange Postecoglou’s new-look Tottenham side, despite their unbeaten start and recent win at Bournemouth.
O’Hara thinks that Richarlison, who only scored one Premier League goal under Antonio Conte, is ‘overthinking’ his game, as he told Sky Sports News (28/08/23).
Compared to last season, Tottenham are playing in a more attack-minded way, on the front foot, with risk and committing more men forward.
Richarlison is getting the chances, it’s just a case of that form, confidence or quick-thinking nature not being in his game because he just has no goalscoring form to go off – Ian Wright has sent a clear message to the Brazil star.
Therefore, it probably isn’t a surprise, from a selfish individual perspective, that he is finding life tough and not enjoying himself.
“I look at Richarlison and he isn’t enjoying his football,” said O’Hara. “But James Maddison certainly is.
“When you listen to Ange, he basically says ‘no, it’s okay. He is doing what he wants for the team, yeah I want him to look like he can score more goals’.
“I think he knows there is a problem. Richarlison doesn’t look like he is enjoying it. I think he is overthinking it. I know when a striker goes through bad patches. Overthinking and having that extra touch.”
Postecoglou’s style of play
Richarlison might be finding life tough as he searches for that goal and form, but the fans are certainly enjoying themselves.
After four seasons of playing under defensive-minded coaches, the paying supporters have now got their wish of watching a team that is playing with the handbrakes off.
Even with Harry Kane leaving, the mood and feeling has been as strong as it has ever been.
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