Paul Merson has explained why Tottenham Hotspur are struggling as he makes his prediction for their upcoming Premier League clash against Fulham.
The Opta Supercomputer has predicted a Tottenham victory this weekend, but the club’s supporters might not be feeling too confident based on recent performances.
Tottenham Hotspur returned from the international break only to deliver an abysmal display against Arsenal, losing by a three-goal margin.
Spurs will be more encouraged by their midweek fixture against PSG, as they managed to create some chances and score three goals. However, Thomas Frank’s side defended poorly once again and conceded five times.
Paul Merson predicts Tottenham to draw with Fulham
There has been plenty of talk about Frank’s playing style, but ex-Arsenal forward Merson believes this to be irrelevant. This is because no matter how Spurs opt to play, victory is never the end result.
Tottenham sat back on Sunday and were deservedly thrashed, but taking a more attacking approach in the Champions League resulted in failure too.
Merson told Sportskeeda: “Tottenham are a nightmare to predict! I thought they were blown away by Arsenal last weekend, it was just embarrassing. That was Tottenham’s biggest game of the season.
“I know Arsenal are the better team but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it hard for them. Fans would have wanted Tottenham players to run through brick walls in this game but that didn’t happen. Spurs made it a walk in the park for Arsenal and even if they beat Fulham 16-0, it won’t make up for that derby loss!
“Even against PSG in the Champions League, Tottenham took the lead twice and still lost 5-3. If they have a go at opponents, they score three goals and end up conceding five in return. If they hold back, they lose 4-1 like against Arsenal. Spurs are not able to find the right balance and that is a worrying thing.
“Tottenham have been poor at home and they are very panicky when they are expected to go and win a game of football. This is one such game against Fulham and I don’t expect them to win.
Merson’s prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Fulham
Spurs need a Premier League victory
Tottenham’s recent league form has seen them drop to ninth place in the Premier League table, but only two points separate them from Crystal Palace who sit in fifth.
Spurs are the same number of points away from 13th place Brentford, so whatever result they register this weekend could have a big impact on the league standings.
It is essential that Tottenham get back to winning ways and continue to apply the pressure on the teams currently positioned in the Champions League spots.