Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle, who was part of BT Sport’s panel analyzing Tottenham’s game against Olympiacos on Tuesday, was extremely complimentary of Spurs’ performances under new manager Jose Mourinho.
He talked about how the Portuguese manager’s appointment has given a new lease of life to certain players and picked out Serge Aurier in particular as someone who has improved considerably.
The Ivorian was one of Spurs’ stand out player on Tuesday, just as he was against West Ham last weekend. Mourinho gave the 26-year-old licence to bomb forward and he has done so to tremendous effect in both games.
After setting up Harry Kane’s goal against West Ham with a great cross, the full-back got an assist as well as a goal against Olympiacos. His 73rd minute strike, which was a beautifully taken half volley, was a crucial goal in the game as it gave Spurs the lead for the first time on the night.
Speaking about the Aurier, Glenn Hoddle told BT Sport 2 (9:55pm, 26 November), “Aurier, for instance, looks a different player. He is allowed to really get himself high up the pitch.
“This (goal) is a wonderful finish. He doesn’t try to hit it too hard, he just guides it drills it.”
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Mourinho has allowed Aurier to bomb forward and play in the opposition half while asking the left-back to tuck inside to make a back three. He has thus ensured that Aurier’s athleticism and attacking quality are being highlighted while diminishing the chances of him making an error in the defensive third.
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