Reinforcements
Although so called ‘silly season’ is firmly upon us it seems Tottenham have been far more sensible than in previous years. Mainly due to the fact that for the first time in years the squad does not need a drastic summer overhaul. Spurs’ only confirmed summer signing is defensive midfield destroyer Victor Wanyama, bought in for a reasonable £11million. As a back up holding midfielder with a physical presence he is what Spurs were crying out for at the end of last season and he will improve Spurs’ options in the centre of the park drastically.
In addition Vincent Janssen is an imminent arrival from AZ Alkmaar. The top scorer in the Eredivisie last year should be a more than capable back up to Harry Kane and add another dimension to Tottenham's attack. If Janssen can help spurs overcome their tendency of picking up frustrating draws (with the second highest number of them in the league last season) then the next one could be a different story. As a much needed second striker with a goalscorer’s instinct he should be helpful in this regard. At £17million he also represents good value for money in a ludicrously inflated market. With the squad strengthened where necessary and more signings to come Spurs should be set for an improvement.
Continuity
The Premier League's big hitters are in a state of upheaval. There are new regimes at Chelsea and both Manchester clubs, as well as Liverpool who are still bedding in under Klopp. Tottenham are in a minority of the expected title challengers (along with Leicester and Arsenal) who have a settled squad of players that fit in with the manager’s identity.
Conte, Mourinho and Guardiola will all need time for their squads to take shape and all three of their new clubs are in transition. In these circumstances Tottenham have an opportunity to take advantage. Not only do they have a settled first XI, but also players who understand clearly what the manager wants and who play for their boss.
Mauricio Pochettino is about to start his third season in charge of the North London side, with ink drying on a deal to keep him at the club until 2021. Not only has he completely revolutionised the identity of the club, but also become a father figure to his squad of young players and is undoubtedly the man to take the club to the next level.
Youth
Although last season ultimately failed to deliver on its promise, looking back, finishing third with the youngest squad in the league was no mean feat. For such a youthful team to deliver automatic champions league qualification was commendable. Key players are still improving such as: Dele Alli at the age of 20, Harry Kane and Eric Dier at 22, with Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela still only 24.
All these players have their best years still to come and will only get better. With the added experience of their first title charge Tottenham are sure to be a force to be reckoned with, not only next season but for many years to come. Add the youthful core to an experienced group of defenders and competing with the team will be a frightening prospect.
The season to come will really show whether or not the players who did so well last year are just a flash in the pan. Spurs look in a good position to go on and win it, but they could also be the definition of "Spursy" and finish fifth. Only one thing is for sure and that is that it will be fun to watch.
