Postecoglou needs to axe out Spurs flop with 0% after nightmare display against Newcastle
As Tottenham Hotspur prepares to host Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, September 15, manager Ange Postecoglou faces a crucial decision regarding his starting lineup.
Following a disappointing performance against Newcastle United at St James’ Park, it’s clear that Postecoglou must consider making changes, particularly in the forward line. One such adjustment should be the exclusion of Wilson Odobert from the starting XI.
Tottenham’s recent trip to St James’ Park ended in a frustrating defeat, leaving the North London club with just four points from their first three Premier League matches.
Despite losing their last two games at the venue by heavy margins of 6-1 and 4-0, Spurs displayed a marked improvement this time around. However, their inability to convert opportunities in the final third ultimately cost them the game.
Postecoglou’s side should have secured all three points against Newcastle, but wasteful finishing let them down. Wilson Odobert, in particular, struggled to make an impact, highlighting the need for Postecoglou to reassess his options ahead of the crucial North London Derby against Arsenal.
Wilson Odobert’s performance against Newcastle was a key factor in Tottenham’s inability to secure a victory. The 19-year-old French forward was given a starting role due to the absences of Dominic Solanke and Richarlison, but he failed to seize the opportunity.
According to Sofascore, Odobert was unsuccessful in both of his dribble attempts and squandered one of Tottenham’s best chances of the match, sending a shot over the bar after being set up by Brennan Johnson at the far post. His passing accuracy was also below par, with an 83% completion rate, and he failed to deliver any accurate crosses into the box, while giving away possession 11 times.
Defensively, Odobert’s struggles continued. He won just 50% of his ground duels and was dribbled past twice, further emphasizing his lack of impact on both ends of the pitch.
While there’s no doubt that the young forward has potential, his performance against Newcastle suggests that he’s not yet ready for the intensity and pressure of a North London Derby against Arsenal.
With Arsenal visiting the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Postecoglou needs to field a lineup that combines talent with experience. The North London Derby is one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in the Premier League, and it demands players who can handle the pressure and make decisive contributions.
Wilson Odobert, at just 19 years old, is still developing and will undoubtedly improve with time. However, this high-stakes encounter may be too much for him at this stage of his career. Postecoglou would be wise to turn to more experienced options, particularly with the possible return of Dominic Solanke or Richarlison to the squad.
Both Solanke and Richarlison offer a proven track record in front of goal and the ability to influence big games. Their presence would not only bolster Tottenham’s attacking threat but also provide the composure and leadership needed in such a crucial match.
Dropping Odobert for the Arsenal match could also have important tactical implications. Without Odobert, Postecoglou could shift Dejan Kulusevski back to his natural position on the right flank, where he has been most effective for Spurs.
This would allow Son Heung-min to move back into the central forward role, where his pace and clinical finishing could pose significant problems for Arsenal’s defense.
Additionally, with Solanke or Richarlison potentially returning to the lineup, Tottenham would have a more balanced and experienced attacking trio capable of taking the game to Arsenal. This tactical adjustment could be the key to unlocking the Gunners’ defense and securing a crucial victory in the North London Derby.
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