My Spurs Champions League Thoughts
Looking ahead to the Champions League Final as a Spurs fan has to be the highlight of this generation. The last European cup they won was in 84’ before I was even born. Spurs are playing a team they know really well but haven’t found success against them this season.
I am going to highlight three points that I think are key to Spurs success. The first one, which has been the talk leading up to it, is whether or not Harry Kane will be fit. He is a proven goal scorer, has great hold up play, and works incredibly hard as the first defender.
I think Pochettino is in a tough spot because no matter what he does he will be judged based on the result. For me I think if he’s game ready you can start him. If he has any doubt, I think you use him as an attacking sub off the bench. Either way he will have a role to play in the final.
The last couple of games I think Spurs started very slow and took some time getting into the game. That brings me to my second point, which is Spurs have to start well and match Liverpool’s intensity. They have to fight for every second ball and when they do have it they need to stretch Liverpool and posses it. I don’t think they should get caught up in an open game and try and beat Liverpool at their own game.
Finally, Spurs back four and holding midfield have to be sound defensively on the counter attack. Liverpool’s bread and butter is the pace and accuracy at which they counter and catch teams flat. They have to be aware at all times where Liverpool’s front three are and be ready to transition to defending. If Spurs can delay them and recover into their shape I think Spurs can eliminate Liverpool’s greatest threat.
My starting 11 would be: Lloris, Rose, Vertonghen, Alderweireld, Trippier, Sissoko, Eriksen, Dele, Son, Moura, Kane. If Kane is doubtful then Wanyama. Same lineup as the Semifinal 2nd leg. I think Wanyama struggled against Ajax but hopefully that was just a one off game.
Pat McMahon
Louisville City FC