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| Harry's Square Peg Puzzle |
| Written by Bateseyboy |
| Monday, 17 October 2011 16:52 |
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While the result was 'just ok' what is most annoying was yet another game categorised by "square pegs in round holes" and a system that didn't work overall. And the reason? Rafael van der Vaart. Harry spoke on Sky beforehand about how 'tough' his decision was to leave out Defoe. Bollocks. If Rafa is fit he always starts - usually with JD or Lennon having to make way. Over the course of sixty competitive games that Rafa has been with the club, he has not once made an appearance as a substitute. The one occasion he was named as sub (Charlton in the FA Cup) he was un-used. This does rather bring into focus whether there is a contractual edge to the situation that takes away from Harry's ability to take decisions in the interest of the team. One thing is certain, if vdV is fit, he starts. So, what problems does the inclusion of vdV create? It seems it affects two (maybe three) other positions, being the 'second striker' and the wide midfield slots, and has knock-on effects elsewhere. Up-front the primary striker - so long as he is fit - will most likely be Bad Ade for the Premier League games and perhaps latter-stage Europa League fixtures. If one slots Rafa into the second striker position, clearly some attacking potential is lost leaving Defoe on the bench, or one is forced to forego a [most likely central] midfielder to accommodate. Leaving Defoe out is a tough call, as we all recognise he's a "streaky" type. When he's hot he's very hot and scores goals like the one yesterday. We looked much more dangerous against Newcastle once he was introduced and Modric tucked inside to get on the ball more often. In turn, Luka is too good to be stuck on the periphery as he was for large periods. Indeed it cost us the first goal with him being unable to stop that big-nosed gypsy Argie. Alternatively, playing Rafa out wide (e.g. on the right) allows for the inclusion of Defoe, but then we lose a lot of width that way as Rafa's natural inclination is to drift inside, putting pressure on the full-back. We also all know Bale is shit on the right yet Harry slotted him in there again - nullifying our most potent attacking threat. His exertions for Wales looked to have taken their toll too. In any event, Spurs' lack of right-sided cover is starting to tell us as it affects 2-3 other positions as a result. And it's starting to piss me off. I'm not saying axe him necessarily but I just want Harry to display fairness in his rotation rather than having favourites. We've all seen what's become of Bassong due to his constant exclusion even after good games as stand in. Let's hope this doesn't undermine our good recovery this year like it did last season. Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites           |
