Stand-out star: Harry Kane

Published: 6 August, 2015
by DAN CARRIER

IT is a big, big season for Mauricio Pochettino. 

He guided Spurs to fifth spot and a cup final in his first season at the helm. Now he’s had 12 months to forge a team to his own liking, and get shot of players who didn’t buy into his philosophy. With that in mind, what can supporters expect from Tottenham and their manager in this coming campaign? 

The Shelf investigates… 

Expecting a big season 

Poch will need his stand-out players from last term to shine again, none more so than hotshot striker Harry Kane. But what the fans are really wondering is who will be the next Spurs Lodge discovery to follow in Kane’s footsteps? Alex Pritchard set the Championship alight last season at Brentford and will be in the first team squad, while Dele Alli, who joined from MK Dons in February, has done enough during pre-season to suggest he won’t be sent out on loan. 

Shape up or ship out

Poch has shown a ruthlessness towards expensive names that he just didn’t fancy and, as a result, the squad now looks a lot leaner. Mousa Dembele has survived the cut; but only just. We all know the midfielder can combine guts with guile – but it’s time for him to prove it week in, week out. 

Dilemmas of the dug out 

No one has bid the required cash for Andros Townsend, so it looks like he is staying put. Poch needs to ensure he plays the winger in his best position, namely on the left, as when he’s inverted he runs down blind alleys. Personally, I’d also like to see Poch abandon his 4-2-3-1 formation when it isn’t working, and also start giving key players a rest when they need it. 

Hallmark of good season 

The Holy Grail of fourth or above is, as ever, the aim. But an FA Cup final, and dare I say a win at Wembley, is long, long overdue.