Now, let me preface this by saying: it’s only 3 losses against 3 decent teams, key difference makers are out and even if they continue on this run, Tottenham will be more than OK with Ange at the helm.
I’m going to talk about specifically these 3 games. Despite key players not playing, Tottenham have still been able to play the Ange way somewhat, because the players have the skillset to do so (looking at bryan gil, lo Celso, Bentancur and even Hojberg to an extent). the only time they got pegged back really was the second half vs wolves, and as a united fan, I can say wolves are pretty good at that.
ok that’s subjective but what’s factually correct is that spurs have led in each of these 3 games, and one would think that they would be more cautious and try to protect their lead despite it not being the Ange way. they played the “brave” high line against Chelsea, they switched off in the final minutes v wolves, they played a high line for the all-important equalizer at the end of the half against villa. i mean, look at the starting XI against villa. did Ange not even consider set pieces when he put that out?
I don’t know what’s right or wrong in the long term, but I do think that the inability of Ange to not be more pragmatic and flexible considering the circumstances is a genuine criticism to be had (feel free to disagree in the comments). in turn it’s probably that stubbornness that’s his strength as well. This is coming from a United fan who has the same issue (lack of a plan B) with Ten Hag so do with this bit of context what you will.
Any team in the PL would struggle with the volume of players that Spurs are missing. It’s a clear indicator that the rebuild is not over and needs to keep pace in January. Most Spurs fans are pragmatic and are accepting that this is part of the process - I’ve never seen the anti-Spurs hysteria from other clubs as much as in this season.
The fact that they are committed, playing good football and only just coming up short is a testament to the change in attitudes at the club. I remember when we’d give up before the first whistle and get turned over by 5 goals.