‘You have to question it’ – Andy Cole puzzled by Mourinho decision against West Ham

Andy Cole has admitted that he was left puzzled by Jose Mourinho’s decision to start Serge Aurier over Matt Doherty in Tottenham’s 3-3 draw against West Ham on Sunday.

Doherty was one of the first players to arrive through the door at Spurs during the transfer window and the singing was hailed by many as a smart capture, especially for the rumoured £13.4m price.

Aurier, meanwhile, was heavily linked (RMC Sport) with a move away from North London and it looked as though the Republic of Ireland international had been introduced to replace the Ivorian.

However, Aurier ended up staying at Spurs and the arrival of Doherty seems to have had a positive effect on the former PSG man, who has put in several impressive displays at the start of the campaign.

He was arguably one of Tottenham’s best players in the 6-1 thrashing of Manchester United two and a half weeks ago, as he was flawless defensively while also scoring one and assisting another.

However, Cole has questioned Mourinho’s decision to start Aurier over Doherty as he suggested that the former Wolves man is better both defensively and offensively.

Speaking to talkSPORT (18/10/20 at 3:45 pm), the former Manchester United striker said: “I think it’s very strange. When you chase someone in the summer. You bring them in, especially Doherty.

“Aurier was on the verge of going to AC Milan. That didn’t work out then he [Doherty] is not playing. You have to question it. I know he [Aurier] scored against Manchester United, but me personally, I still think Doherty is the better fullback.

“Now, whether it’s wingback or fullback. I think defensively and attack-wise, he’s still a better fullback – I don’t think Aurier is the one for me.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Aurier’s form has been very good whenever he has played so far this season and I did not think he did a lot wrong against West Ham either. Additionally, Doherty played two full ninety minutes and one 120-minute game for Ireland over the international break, which is probably why Mourinho decided to rest him and start with Serge.

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