Opinion: How Mourinho’s new defensive system is bringing Spurs goals galore

Tottenham Hotspur have another three points in the Premier League this weekend, following their win over West Ham United last time out.

Much like that win at the London Stadium, Spurs pulled off a 3-2 result against Bournemouth today, despite going 3-0 up in the match.

However, it is also the third game in a row under Mourinho in which Spurs have bagged at least three goals, with the Lilywhites getting four in mid-week against Olympiacos.

So, how is Jose doing it?

There are two key changes to the Spurs shape in-game, the formation of the front four and the formation of the defence.

Up front, Mourinho has favoured Kane, Son, Dele, and Moura, although Sissoko played the Lucas role today. Dele is also given a free license to roam between the lines as the link between defence and attack.

Meanwhile, at the back, Spurs line up with a flat back four, today being Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld, Davinson Sanchez, and Serge Aurier.

However, while the players keep a back four shape in defence, when they are in possession Serge Aurier pushes up almost as a winger, while Vertonghen drops in to make a back three with Toby and Sanchez.

This gives Spurs another avenue of attack on the right, while also taking the pressure off Alderweireld’s left foot/side, and creating a compact three to deal with aerial balls.

Seems to be working a treat at the moment, but Spurs do need to work on their ability to close out a game.

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