Game Of Number – Three Key Stats That Tottenham Need To Improve This Season
Tottenham Hotspur are currently one of the most consistent sides in the Premier League and Mauricio Pochettino is adamant that he already has a stellar squad to work with next season. He is yet to make a first team signing this summer but will hope that the fringe players in the squad live up to the expectation in the upcoming campaign.
They were one of the best defensive sides in the domestic league last season but Spurs have their own set of problems, that has been pushing them down consistently. They failed to compete for the title in the final month of last season, just like what they did in the season before that, and they will have to improve certain key areas if they are to go all the way this season.
So here are three such key stats from the previous campaign, that Spurs should look to improve on:
Goals from free kicks (0)
Probably one of the biggest issues for Spurs is their lack of set-piece takers. Christian Eriksen can whip in a cross or two but the London side failed to score a single goal from a direct dead ball last season and unless they make a stellar signing, it is not something that will improve this summer. It is not the most important thing for a side but Pochettino can do with someone who can turn things around in such a situation for his side.
Interceptions (314)
The Argentine manager uses a high energy system with relentless pressing from his midfielders and attackers. They usually push the opponents into committing mistakes but more often than not, a couple of creative passes is all it takes to break them down. They have a secure backline which has made it easier for them but Spurs need to be a bit patient in the middle of the park as they can snub attacks out early. Their 314 interceptions last season in the league is the least for any side in the competition and is something they should work on.
Blocks (99)
Another defensive attribute that they can work on is the number of blocks their defenders put in during crisis situations. The backline at the club is not shy of throwing themselves in front of the ball but they have just made 99 blocks all season, which is less than the likes of Manchester United and Everton. Tottenham are the best defensive unit in England and if they can improve this stat this season, one can only imagine what would happen! The great wall of England?
Stat Credit: Premierleague.com
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