Richarlison was again unconvincing to lead the Tottenham line Photo: Reuters/David Klein Match highlight: AFC Bournemouth v Tottenham Hotspur
The last time Tottenham were on the south coast, the situation could hardly have been bleaker. Antonio Conte launched a startling tirade against his 'selfish players' and club owners after Spurs managed a 3-1 win and a draw against bottom-floor Southampton as they failed to qualify for Europe for the first time in 14 years.< /p>
Five months in the picture could hardly be more different. The boredom and exhaustion of the eras of Nuno, Mourinho and Conte were swept aside in an exciting, adventurous style called “ange-bol” that saw the Spurs score seven points in their first three games, scoring six times in the process.< /p>
No, Kane, no problem? Well, not quite. While it may seem impolite to look for holes in the impressive work that Ange Postecoglou has begun at Tottenham, form at the start of the season cannot overshadow the indispensable contribution of the England captain since his move to Bayern Munich.
Certainly in there is no shortage of goals at the moment, but a more prolific player than Richarlison could have seen Spurs come out at half-time with more than one goal to showcase their dominance against Bournemouth.
The Brazilian was visible in the first half at the Vitality Stadium but missed a great chance to score before becoming increasingly anonymous in the second half before being substituted in the 59th minute.
James Maddison was an exceptional player when Tottenham beat Bournemouth 2-0 away. Photo: Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley
His numbers just don't add up. Since moving to north London for £60m a year ago, he has scored just one goal in the Premier League, with his highest single campaign tally in English football being 13 league goals when he played for ” Everton”.
In the post-match report, Postecoglu made all the right sounds to support his player, but with a week left in the transfer window, it is possible that the attacking forces will strengthen. However, there is a feeling that Tottenham will have to reduce the squad before bringing in new players.
At Bournemouth, Richarlison played ahead of Son Heung-min, Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison who scored their first goal for the club with a remarkable individual performance.
If Spurs have yet to find a solution for the absence Kane Postecoglou quickly appointed a new captain at Sona, who, like Maddison, clearly enjoys the Aussie's job.
Ange Postekoglou got off to a good start at Tottenham, winning matches and playing in a style that Spurs devotees admire. Credit: Reuters/David Klein
“Just think about why you started playing football as a child. I don't think you even expected to be a pro. You are just having fun with your ball. I think it's very important to have fun. It helps you gain confidence and confidence in yourself,” the South Korean said, before stressing the importance of Maddison's contribution to the revamped Spurs.
“He's a really good player. For a couple of years we needed a player who could create chances and give assists, which is very important. It is a pleasure to play with him. I hope he can score and give a lot of goals.
“Obviously, being the captain of a huge club is a big role. I just want to take responsibility, help my teammates, do what's best for the club. It is very important. We only played three games. They were very positive, but, nevertheless, I think that there is room for improvement.
Lineups: Bournemouth – Tottenham Hotspur.
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