Paul Merson delivers verdict on Tottenham title credentials, criticises Son Heung-min

Follow us on Google Discover

Paul Merson has told Sky Sports has given his verdict on Tottenham and their title credentials ahead of Wednesday night’s clash against Manchester United – as well as criticising Son Heung-min for his start to the 2022-23 campaign.

Tottenham go into Wednesday night’s clash at Old Trafford having won their last two matches. They secured an impressive 1-0 away win over Brighton during an emotional moment, following the sad passing of Gian Piero Ventrone.

Then, on Saturday evening, they saw off an improving Everton side to win 2-0. Defensively, Spurs look solid and with Harry Kane in attack and the form of the England captain, they can score against anyone. They sit in third place.

Indeed, they are level on points and four behind North London rivals Arsenal. Merson gave his take on whether he thinks Tottenham can win the Premier League title – while also criticising the form of Son, who has five goals this term.

“Spurs have not started. There’s 100 per cent more to come from them. (Heung-Min) Son has hardly played! But you have to give them credit for where they are. I think Spurs are too defensive to win the title.

“I know Chelsea won the league with Conte and it was tight at the back, but don’t see Tottenham blowing teams away. And that’s a bit of a problem given how they play,” Merson told his Sky Sports column, ahead of Wednesday’s clash.

Merson gives verdict on Tottenham title credentials and criticises Son

While Merson has a point that Tottenham are yet to get out of second or third gear, they do sit in an impressive third place. Conte’s system might mean that Spurs are incredibly solid defensively, but they struggle to get to fourth of fifth.

However, it has worked for him wherever he has gone. He knows the quality Spurs have in attack and if their defence is solid and earning regular clean sheets, they have a chance. Against United, they will ave a chance to counter attack.

In terms of Son, his criticism is somewhat over the top. Though Son will not be happy with his start to the season despite a hat-trick against Leicester and a brace against Frankfurt, he does need to show signs of improvement soon.