Opinion: Five things we learned from Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Rennes

Tottenham Hotspur started their Europa Conference League campaign off with a 2-2 draw against Rennes this evening, with the two sides sharing a point each in Group G.

Let’s take a look at five things we learned:

Spurs are where they belong – The unfortunate truth is that, at the moment, Tottenham belong in the third tier of European football. Until we can show that we can outclass the teams down here, we cannot expect to achieve or deserve anything better. Beat what’s in front of you, then reach for better.

Lack of creativity again – The same problem we have seen in every fixture so far this season, a lack of creativity. Tottenham struggled to get hold of the ball at all in the first half and, when they did have it, didn’t look dangerous. Spurs’ two goals came from a deflected pass and a cross that popped up perfectly for Hojbjerg. Something needs to change.

Ndombele returns – Tanguy was back and he showed Spurs fans what they had been missing. He worked hard, made positive runs, drove at the defence, created openings and even tracked back. Unfortunately, Ndombele often needs players around him to play well in order to get the best out of him. He isn’t a solo match-winner and he needed help today.

Bergwijn and Moura injuries – Both Steven Bergwijn and Lucas Moura were forced off with injuries, while Bryan Gil went down after the final whistle. With Heung-min Son also out, the wide positions are running very thin on the ground at the moment. Fingers crossed at least one of them is okay to face Chelsea at the weekend.

Fringe players falling short – While there were many first-teamers out there too, the running theme of fringe players not stepping up to the plate is becoming worrying. If they cannot impress in the lesser competitions, they will not get Premier League chances and Tottenham’s strength in depth will run thinner and thinner. Certain people, without naming names, need to stand up.

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