The half-time whistle has blown between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle in the Carabao Cup, and the player ratings are in.
Below, we have given each Tottenham player a performance rating on a scale of 0-10, with 10 highest score achievable for an impressive performance.
Tottenham player ratings vs Newcastle
Antonin Kinsky – Called into action early on from a Newcastle set piece after Malick Thiaw got his head on a Sandro Tonali cross, but the Czech international was equal to it. The 22-year-old has been tidy with his distribution, often finding Richarlison’s feet. Conceded from a corner after Fabian Schar headed in – came out to claim but hesitated. 6.
Pedro Porro – Newcastle United started the first half at full tilt, creating a couple of early chances. Jacob Ramsey looked to test Kinsky after a driving run into Spurs’ box, but Porro stuck with him and got a vital block in to deny the former Aston Villa man. 6.
Kevin Danso – The Austrian was immense last time out against Everton, but here he was caught out by Schar, who rose above him to give Newcastle the lead. Managed a strike from range as Tottenham pushed for an equaliser, though it went straight at Aaron Ramsdale. 5.
Joao Palhinha – The Portuguese midfielder does not look out of place in defence, given how solid he’s been. Made a couple of key interceptions, blocks and tackles, and dealt well with aerial duels. Has, however, been dragged out of position at times when Djed Spence pushes forward. 7.
Djed Spence – Really positive going forward for Tottenham as they chased an equaliser. Decision-making in the final third was decent, with Thomas Frank trusting him to hold width on the left. His boot let him down for Newcastle’s corner that led to the goal, as he could not get into position in time after trying to rectify the problem. 6.5.
Rodrigo Bentancur –Spurs have been far too easy to play through in this tie, often looking outnumbered in midfield. Bentancur has kept things ticking with neat sideways passes but hasn’t imposed himself enough. 5.5.
Pape Matar Sarr – Industrious as ever, helping out defensively, but he could offer more both in attack and in his pressing. 5.
Lucas Bergvall – Lively in spells and involved in much of Tottenham’s attacking play. Had a good chance to play in Richarlison but misplaced his cross behind the Brazilian. 6.5.
Xavi Simons – No real quality from the Dutchman, who’s been overpowered by Newcastle’s physical midfield and defence at times when he’s got on the ball. He has been good in transition and managed to get an effort on goal, but he did not hit the target. 4.
Richarlison – More involved this time, dropping deeper to link play. Had an early effort blocked by Newcastle’s back line. He had a really good chance late on in the first half, but his headed effort was straight at Ramsdale. 6.
Brennan Johnson – The Welshman hasn’t had a clear sight of goal. Had a chance to deliver into the box but scuffed his cross out for a goal-kick. Did, however, combine well with Bergvall on one occasion, but the Swede’s final ball was behind Richarlison. 5.