Wednesday night sees Spurs first home game in the European Cup (or that competition’s nearest current equivalent) since 1962. Thanks to the first half hour against Young Boys last Tuesday evening it also means we’re going to witness a ‘must win’ match a lot sooner than we hoped for.
After being run ragged by a combination of speed and plastic in the former Wankdorf last week we recovered enough to nick two goals and thus bring back to life a tie that appeared more dead and buried than Crouchy’s hopes of opening his Christmas presents with Abby this year.
Despite the fact that Gareth Bale is our only regular goal scorer at the moment I’d suggest it’s in defence where this tie will be won and lost. We have enough about us to score at least once, especially given the likely White Hot Lane atmosphere, but can we keep them out on the break? They’ll be confident of nicking a goal if we give them any space and rightly so judging by the way they regularly showed Dawson and co a clean pair of astroturf soles last time out. Charlie Corluka is our man most likely to exhibit bursts of Gareth Barry like acceleration so there’s a chance that Redknapp’s fondness for Kaboul may see him given an outing in the Croatian’s place. Dawson and King should be reunited in the middle.
Up front and in midfield, a lot depends on the injury situation. With Defoe, Keane, Pav back we’ll have options enough to be confident, but something extra from Lennon, Kranjcar, big Tom et al wouldn’t go amiss.
Sandro’s just won the Copa Libertadores and Gallas has been signed for his CL experience amongst other qualities. Levy’s pen might be poised above a chequebook ready to bring in others to help but whether he actually signs his name or slings his biro away unused probably depends on Wednesday night’s result.
The sub-editors will be rubbing their hands in anticipation at the potential headlines should we cock it up. If we play anywhere near our best & don’t freeze they’ll be sadly disappointed.
By MF
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