Michael Dawson doesn’t think Tottenham Hotspur duo Eric Dier and Ben Davies are quick enough to play in Ange Postecoglou’s system.
Tottenham host Unai Emery’s Aston Villa on Sunday, with fourth meeting fifth in a crucial Premier League showdown.
Ange Postecoglou heads into the game without his main centre-back pairing – Cristian Romero, who is suspended, and the injured Micky van de Ven – Martin Keown lauded the summer signing.
As a result, it could be Eric Dier starting at the heart of the defence, alongside Ben Davies, but Michael Dawson says ‘they aren’t quick’ to play a high line, as he told Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports (25/11/23 at 1:30 pm).
Before the international break, Spurs suffered a 2-1 defeat at Wolves, with the Midlands side leaving it late to seal all three points.
They face an even tougher test now because Aston Villa are pushing for those Champions League places also and could overtake them with three points today.
Ahead of that match, Dawson spoke about his worries with Eric Dier and Ben Davies.
Eric Dier and Ben Davies to start v Aston Villa?
“The first ten games were absolutely magnificent,” said Dawson. “We spoke about Ange Postecoglou and how good he was.
“He had the personnel to go and play in that way. You had Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven. They could defend in one-on-one areas.
“No disrespect to Eric Dier. He has been an unbelievable servant. (And) Ben Davies. But they aren’t quick.”
The battle of the high lines
Both Spurs and Aston Villa have been two of the most exciting teams to watch in the Premier League this season.
A lot of it stems from their managers – Ange Postecoglou and Unai Emery – who like to take a lot of risks and play on the front foot, no matter what.
As Spurs proved with nine men against Chelsea, they won’t change for anyone, nor will Villa.
Expect goals galore at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium because both teams will be going at each other’s throats from the off.
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