Tottenham are Premier League’s comeback kings – how Spurs fought back to win at home, again
The whole Tottenham team got the result they deserved against Villa, but I was particularly pleased that Solanke was rewarded for such a fine individual performance with two goals.
He joined Tottenham for £65m in the summer off the back of a wonderful campaign for Bournemouth but made a stuttering start this season with Spurs, which can happen.
All players need a bit of time to settle at a new club, but I think a few fans questioned whether he was the right signing or too expensive because he missed a chance against Arsenal in his first game back after an injury, and some people judged him off that.
I never really had too many doubts about him because, every time I saw him play this season, his link-up play was good and his work off the ball was phenomenal – his pressing is as good as there is in the Premier League and probably one of the reason Spurs wanted him.
I love seeing someone work so hard but I think the other reason he has so many admirers is that he is not a whinger, a diver or a cheater, when a lot of modern-day forward players are. Someone might read this and say well I saw him do this or that last year, and there might be the odd occasion, but my point is it is not part of his game.
So, there is a lot to like about Solanke but as we all know, strikers are ultimately all judged on goals, which is why Sunday was so important for him after going six games without a goal.
If it had not happened already, this was the day Tottenham fans kind of took him in and he showed them exactly the player he is.
I heard them singing his name after his first goal, and again after his second one too, and if they did not fully appreciate him before this game then they definitely do now.
He epitomised the team’s work ethic and blended that with a brilliant centre-forward’s display in front of goal.
I understand why there is always going to be criticism of this Spurs team when they keep trying to play in such a positive way and lose, because there is a constant conversation around whether Postecoglou’s philosophy means there is only one way they can play.
The debate about whether they need to adapt will continue but, right now, when you see the chances they make, it is perfect for Solanke. He is going to get chances playing in this system, and he is good enough to take them.
Danny Murphy was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.
#Tottenham #Premier #Leagues #comeback #kings #Spurs #fought #win #home