Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
Craig Dobson looks at QPR's decision to sack Neil Warnock and replace him with Mark Hughes
James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
The cause of Spurs’ decline this season is actually the abandonment of their trademark footballing philosophy as quick one touch pass has given way to the lumbering hoof. Passing the ball has been the one constant over generations of players who have pulled on the Lilywhite jersey. But against Bolton, as against Villa, Leeds and Wolves, Spurs spent large portions of the game, particularly the first half, lumping unimaginative long balls towards the rangy Crouch. The fine playmakers of Modric, Huddlestone and Kranjcar have RSI in their necks watching the ball fly over their heads. With Spurs’ main attacking threat nullified and teams contesting, and often winning, the second ball after the Crouch knockdown – it is'nt hard to understand how Spurs have failed to score in nine premier league games this season.
It is true Spurs have lost Lennon who offered important width when attempting to stretch and break down teams. The loss of an international will hurt any team with Champions League hopes. But playing long ball is no solution and the patches of passing that Spurs have put together have been their most dangerous and profitable in recent games. Crouch offers a lucrative option to hold up that emergency clearance and a towering proposition at set pieces, but Tottenham must avoid the temptation to play a direct ball to him too often. One dimensional teams are easy to combat and Spurs need to hark back to their philosophy of high tempo passing that harnesses the skill and unpredictability of their flair in midfield.
The fans in the terraces fear favouritism towards Crouch from Redknapp, a player he has brought to three of his clubs, and want to see Pavlyuchenko given a run – a move that might force the likes of Dawson to play it short to feet after all. Spurs can still finish in the Elysian fourth champions league spot but they need to reinstate the creativity and footballing ethos that has thrilled the White Hart Lane faithful for decades.
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