Moussa Sissoko’s poor Newcastle performance further highlights Tottenham’s transfer risk

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Tottenham Hotspur didn’t sign anyone during the summer transfer window. If they were hoping for Moussa Sissoko to step up, he didn’t.

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Moussa Sissoko delivered a poor game against Newcastle United Saturday, further highlighting the club’s risk in not bringing in any new players during the summer transfer window.

Spurs kicked off their Premier League campaign with victory on Tyneside, as Jan Vertonghen and Dele Alli grabbed the goals either side of a Joselu equaliser in a barmy opening quarter.

For the first half hour, Tottenham looked menacing, but after the break they struggled and Newcastle can count themselves rather unlucky not to have picked up at least a point.

If Tottenham wish to improve this season, they know they will have to play better than they did against Newcastle, but one major stumbling block is the lack of quality in the overall squad.

Spurs started with Eric Dier and Moussa Sissoko at St. James’ Park – one player who was a backup for England at the recent World Cup, while the other didn’t make France’s tournament squad.

Sissoko’s poor performance against the Magpies, where he managed just one shot and one tackle of note (Whoscored), further illustrates the need to strengthen in the middle of the park.

The players who were linked with Tottenham in the transfer window, namely Jack Grealish and Anthony Martial (Telegraph), are attack-minded players and would be little help in midfield.

Victor Wanyama’s injury has not helped matters, but Spurs knew about this for the past three weeks.

Tottenham have taken a risk by not strengthening the middle of the park, and a reliance on the likes of Dier and Sissoko as the season progresses could hinder their chances of finishing in the Premier League’s top four, rather than enhancing it.