More to Tottenham’s season than the Bale factor

The biggest question at White Hart Lane this summer still remains unresolved. The ‘will he, won’t he’ transfer of Gareth Bale hangs in the balance and while it will go quite some way to determining the nature of Tottenham’s season, there is plenty of reason for Spurs fans to be optimistic ahead of the new campaign.

Andre Villas-Boas’ side has an especially strong feel to its back five. Hugo Lloris has been nothing short of a revelation since his move to North London last season and is rightly regarded as the safest pair of hands at Spurs for some time. Although eyebrows will have been raised by the sale of Steven Caulker, the likes of Jan Vertonghen, Michael Dawson and Younes Kaboul ensure that there is solidity at the heart of defence. It will also be interesting to see whether Danny Rose is given an opportunity to shine following a successful season at Sunderland.

The Tottenham midfield is blessed with significant talent. Sandro was another revelation last season while Mousa Dembele will likely be another key figure this term. However, there is plenty of excitement surrounding Brazilian summer signing Paulinho. Coming off the back of a successful Confederations Cup victory and with one eye on next year’s World Cup, Paulinho will be keen to justify his big money move. Like Danny Rose, Andros Townsend also returns to White Hart Lane having impressed on loan last season and can certainly provide a capable alternative to Aaron Lennon. Of course, if Bale should move to Real Madrid, he will leave a gaping hole on the left side of midfield. Although it may be a lot of pressure on him, summer signing from FC Twente, Nacer Chadli could step up to the plate.

Villas-Boas should be commended for addressing Spurs’ most obvious weakness over the summer. The signing of Spain striker Roberto Soldado could be a stroke of genius. Soldado has an impressive scoring record in La Liga and provides flexibility up front. He may well be the answer to the doubts which persist over both Jermain Defoe and Emmanuel Adebayor. Whether Bale stays on or is transferred, get stunning football prices all season long at sports.WilliamHill.com.

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