Aaron Lennon did not hold back after Spurs’ latest derby day defeat at the hands of Arsenal, as the club’s struggles continue under Ange Postecoglou in his second season. ‘One win in nine matches is not good enough’ says the former winger.
Arsenal 2-1 Spurs: The struggles continue
Tottenham Hotspur’s wait for an away win against Arsenal in the Premier League has now stretched beyond a decade, as they fell short once again on Wednesday, losing 2-1 in the second North London Derby of the season.
Despite showing resilience and determination during periods of the game, it was another disappointing outing for the Lilywhites, with key moments proving their undoing.
The match began with Arsenal firmly on the front foot, dominating the early exchanges and creating a series of dangerous opportunities.
Yet, Tottenham managed to break the deadlock against the run of play, with Heung-min Son finding the net from a corner in a rare moment of attacking efficiency.
Just fifteen minutes later, an unfortunate own goal from Dominic Solanke handed Mikel Arteta’s side the equaliser, and Arsenal’s relentless pressure paid off once again just four minutes later when they took the lead.
Though Spurs remained competitive for much of the second half, they failed to carve out clear chances and ultimately succumbed to another painful derby defeat.
Aaron Lennon reveals what Spurs need in January
Former Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon, speaking after the match, did not shy away from expressing his disappointment with the team’s performance and the broader issues plaguing the club.
Analysing their display against Arsenal, Lennon pointed to the physical and tactical demands of Ange Postecoglou’s system as a growing concern.
He said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “The team looked tired today, the team is stretched but it’s a big problem.
“Ange Postecoglou’s way is fast tempo for 95 minutes. The Spurs players don’t look like they can keep up with the pace. It is a massive problem. One win in nine – it’s not good enough at all.”
When asked what Spurs need in January, Lennon added: “Will Spurs bulk their squad in January? They need cover at the back. They will be looking to cover a centre-half and possibly another striker. The squad needs strengthening.”
A team stretched in need of reinforcement in January
There is no denying the validity of Aaron Lennon’s observations, as the current state of the Tottenham squad has left them looking increasingly fragile.
With nine first-team players sidelined due to injury and a makeshift defensive pairing forced into action, the team’s shortcomings were laid bare in the North London Derby.
Questions need to be asked of the manager and the club’s hierarchy as the current state of the squad shows how short-sighted they have been. If anything, this defeat has amplified the calls for reinforcements in the January transfer window.