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Interesting Times |
Part of a proverb certainly relevant to the Spurs fan, the big news was relatively predictable, the rest functional but perhaps guilty of leaving a slightly bitter aftertaste. Russell Smith reflects.The summer’s most drawn out transfer story (given the speculation started long before Ronaldo’s wistful glance at Real Madrid) got painfully dragged out for the entire duration of the window. Believe what you may about the manner in which it happened, the fact is it did, and with some slight – though pointless, added drama in the whopping bid City put in. So where does this leave Spurs? Frankly, a little lighter than is entirely desirable up front. Had a certain expensive Bulgarian stayed, then the front line options would have been healthy enough- at least in number. Instead, there are currently two and a half strikers at the club as opposed to the four this time last year, and the thought of any kind of injuries, suspensions or in the case of the UEFA competition, cup ties – may rightly fill a supporter with a sense of impending dread. ‘Half’ because Frazier Campbell’s role as a makeweight sees him return to United regardless of anything else which may transpire this season. However make no mistake, the other two have a real chance to shine, and there are signs that Darren Bent will want to take his with open arms. Couple that with Pavluchenko, a man who has been nothing if not consistent on paper, brings power and finishing, and could well have everyone forgetting what all the fuss has been about. It’s not just been about the front men. Verdan Corluka, good friend of Modric and very versatile defensive player comes to the club after settling well enough into the Premier League, and another activity for fans will be to guess which position he plays in. Zokora has signed a new deal with the club, and appears to very much want to be playing for the club. Should he take plaudits as regularly as he did against Chelsea, then he could well be as good as a new signing. In fact, to look at the first team is to look at an entirely new first team than lined up this time last year. Having had a disappointing start, it could be that the bad is out of the way with a new hunger and focus attacking opposition sides. Equally, it could be yet another year of transition, or an anxious wait until January to replace the first of the quartet to go – Jermain Defoe. Russell Smith Click to view author Russell Smith's profile Fancy writing for LiveFootball? Click here to find out more. |