Spurs VS Man Utd, a make or break game for both sides?

So far both Manchester United and Spurs have endured disappointing seasons. Both clubs have aspirations of qualifying for champions league football, and despite neither club currently being in the top 4 this may still be possible. However, for this to happen it is vital for both sides that they hit the ground running with a positive result. 

In Jose Mourinho’s 17 games in charge of Tottenham he has only managed 8 wins, a poor start by any indication. In years past this would not be a huge issue, as Mourinho needs time with his players and significant investment in order to acquire quality players to build around. But, in the circumstances that Spurs find themselves in this is simply not feasible. Mourinho, will have to make do with what he currently has available in the Spurs squad, and this is what makes his start after the break in football so vital. With important players returning from injury such as Kane and Son, this will be the first time Jose will have a full-strength Tottenham squad to select from. Essentially, we will find out if Mourinho can ‘make it work’ with this squad of players and be a success.

Spurs also have some players with uncertain futures, and the way in which these players approach the rest of the season could be crucial in their teams’ success at the end of the season. For example, before the pause in football Tanguy Ndombele was subject to criticism from Jose Mourinho. There is no doubt that Ndombele is an extremely talented midfielder, and if he reacts to Mourinho’s criticism by raising the level of his performances on the pitch, this will not only help the Spurs side directly, but will also set an example to players of how to react to Mourinho. Rather than Spurs players ‘throwing their toys out of the pram’ Ndombele could set a culture of hard work and proving the coach wrong at Spurs, and this would undoubtably lead to success. 

Before the interruption of the Premier League season Man Utd were in terrific form, unbeaten in 10 matches. Solskjaer, seemed to find a team with balance to allow his creative players to flourish. Nevertheless, with high profile players such as Rashford and Pogba returning from injury the team selection will inevitably change. Of course, it is a huge win that important players are now available, but it may offset the rhythm of this Utd side. Solskjaer must find a way to get the best out of his top players, and the first game back will be crucial. It will show whether the players will complement each other and take Utd to the next level, or if there will be a lack of cohesion.

Both Man Utd and Spurs have a chance to salvage their seasons, but a win in their returning game is pivotal in achieving this. If returning players, especially from injury, are able to hit the ground running it will pave the way for good results in the coming weeks, and this is key for a top 4 push.