Do Tottenham Hotspur need a different type of midfield player if they are to reach the next level?
Tottenham’s Eric Dier
Spurs have received high acclaim for their displays so far this season, and specifically for the solidarity they have shown in the defensive midfield area.
Eric Dier has performed to his usual high standards, and the acquisition of Victor Wanyama has proven to be a masterstroke from Mauricio Pochettino.
The one area where the North London side need to improve, however, is in the goals scored department, after a paltry return of just 13 goals in nine league outings.
Whilst Dier and Wanyama are accomplished at protecting the back-four and breaking up play, they lack the ability to carry the ball forward, and more often than not, both players will disperse the football sideways or backwards.
Tottenham’s Victor Wanyama
Moussa Dembele does provide something different for Spurs, and his influence on the side is clear for all to see when he is playing, although he has proven himself to be anything but reliable over the past year, often succumbing to injuries.
Pochettino should consider a move for Crystal Palace play-maker Yohan Cabaye, to inject some much needed creativity into his side and quality in possession of the football.
There is a lot to be said for playing two holding midfielders in big matches against title rivals, but when Spurs play the so-called lesser teams at home, playing Dier and Wanyama together is almost an invitation for the opposition to get on the front foot.
Tottenham have historically dropped points against the lesser teams at White Hart Lane, and it could be argued that it has been down to their negative approach from the outset.
Yohan Cabaye
The acquisition of Cabaye really would be a step forward for Spurs, and he could be used to help break down stubborn teams who are only interested in defending.
The 30-year-old’s quality is beyond question, with 48 caps for France further evidence of his talent.
The big difference between this season and last for Tottenham could be two or three home games where draws are turned into wins.
Could the Eagles midfielder be the man to help them achieve this?
Crystal Palace’s Yohan Cabaye
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