The four-year Tottenham defensive record that Lucas Moura broke against Arsenal

It is fair to say that Lucas Moura’s recent displays have left a lot to be desired, especially since the Premier League restart.

The winger has been wasteful in possession and has not offered Tottenham enough in the final third, having managed just seven goals and three assists in 44 matches this campaign (transfermarkt.com).

The Brazilian has even been accused of continuing to live off his Champions League semifinal hat-trick against Ajax last season.

However, despite the criticism that the 27-year-old has received for some of his recent performances, Mourinho has continued to show faith in him.

Moura repaid the Spurs boss’ trust in the all-important North London Derby on Sunday as he was one of Tottenham’s standout performers in the 2-1 victory.

The Brazilian was a constant threat on the counter-attack and helped set up a number of great chances for Harry Kane with lovely through balls.

However, it was his contribution from a defensive standpoint that was particularly impressive.

Moura, who played on the left flank, not only tracked Hector Bellerin every time the Arsenal right-back went forward, he also won the ball back several times and helped set up counter-attacks.

In fact, it turns out that the former PSG wide-man made more successful tackles in Sunday’s win over the Gunners than any Spurs player has made in a Premier League game in the last four seasons (according to Squawka Football).

Spurs Web Opinion

I was extremely impressed with Moura’s display and I believe only a player who possessed his commitment and athleticism could have performed the role he was given against Arsenal on Sunday. With Sissoko and him starting on either flank in a variation of a 4-4-2 that Jose employed, they not only had to get behind the ball and close down spaces but also be prepared to join in with Kane and Son in attack every time Spurs won the ball back. I thought he performed his role admirably.

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