Paul Merson has placed his faith in Tottenham Hotspur to secure a top-four finish this season, tipping them as one of the teams to watch in the race for Champions League qualification.
The former Arsenal player believes that if the Lilywhites can keep their key players fit, they might not only finish in the top four but could also pull off a few surprises along the way.
Tottenham’s Heartbreak Last Season
Tottenham’s previous campaign ended in disappointment as they narrowly missed out on the final Champions League qualification spot to Aston Villa. Despite a strong start to the season, the Lilywhites faltered in the closing stages, ultimately finishing in fifth place. However, this position was still an improvement from their eighth-place finish the season before.
Ange Postecoglou, in his first season in charge, faced numerous challenges. He inherited a squad that had just lost its talisman, Harry Kane, and was tasked with implementing a new style of play. Despite these hurdles, Postecoglou managed to guide Spurs to the brink of Champions League qualification, showing promise for the future.
Merson’s Confidence in Tottenham’s Potential
Merson believes that the Australian manager has what it takes to steer Tottenham into the top four this season. He points out that injuries played a significant role in derailing Spurs’ campaign last year, suggesting that had they kept their key players fit, they would have secured fourth place.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Merson said: “I do [think there will be a surprise]. Tottenham will finish in the top four. Dominic Solanke is a really good buy. They needed an out-and-out striker with pace, and he’s that. He’s a presence up there leading the line and he will suit the way Spurs play under Ange Postecoglou.”
Merson also highlighted how crucial it is for Tottenham to avoid injuries to their key players. He compared the situation to Arsenal, stating that if the Gunners had suffered the same level of injuries as Spurs did last season, they would have struggled similarly. “We just talked about Arsenal winning the league, if you took the key players Spurs lost away from Arsenal, or anybody else bar Man City, it would be a struggle. So, if Spurs can keep their players fit, I think they can spring a surprise or two this season.”
High Hopes for Tottenham’s Young Stars
Tottenham’s squad is brimming with potential, particularly among its younger players. Merson’s optimism is not unfounded, as the likes of Pape Matar Sarr, Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven, Brennan Johnson, and others are viewed as players with immense potential. If these young talents can continue to develop and reach their potential, Spurs could have a formidable team on their hands.
The key, as Merson emphasized, will be starting the season on the right foot. Last season’s poor run towards the end cast a shadow over an otherwise promising campaign, and Tottenham cannot afford a repeat if they hope to achieve their goals this time around. A strong start would not only boost the team’s confidence but also reinforce belief in Postecoglou’s system.
The Importance of Early Success
For Tottenham, the early stages of the season will be crucial. A poor start could lead to doubts creeping into the minds of the players, potentially undermining Postecoglou’s efforts to implement his philosophy. The manager has already put his stamp on the squad, but results will be the true test of whether his ideas are taking root.
The acquisition of Dominic Solanke, a player who brings pace and presence to the front line, is seen as a smart move that could make a significant impact. Merson’s belief in Solanke’s ability to fit into Postecoglou’s system is a testament to the manager’s eye for talent and his understanding of what the team needs to succeed.
A Season of Promise
As the new Premier League season gets underway, Tottenham fans have reasons to be optimistic. While the loss of Harry Kane was a significant blow, the club has made smart acquisitions and has a squad filled with young talent ready to make their mark.
Merson’s prediction that Tottenham will finish in the top four might surprise some, especially given the competition they face from the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool. However, if the Lilywhites can avoid injuries and get off to a strong start, they have every chance of proving the doubters wrong.
In a league as competitive as the Premier League, surprises are always around the corner, and Tottenham might just be the team to deliver one this season. Whether it’s a return to the Champions League or a push for even greater heights, the stage is set for an exciting campaign at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
