Top four hopefuls – Tottenham can prolong European dream
Published:As Tottenham look to crash the top four party for a second successive season, we explore the strengths and weaknesses of Harry Redknapp’s side.
Goalkeeper
Heurelho Gomes was seen as a liability during his first season at White Hart Lane, but the Brazilian answered his critics in style with a string of excellent performances last season.
Tottenham are priced at 11/4 to finish in the top four, and Gomes will need to maintain his solid form if the club are to realise their Champions League ambitions.
Defence
When fit, England internationals Ledley King and Michael Dawson are among the tightest centre-back partnerships in the league, and Tottenham’s defensive solidity will depend heavily on the physical condition of this duo.
Right-back has been a somewhat problematic area for Spurs in recent years – Pascal Chimbonda, Chris Gunter and Alan Hutton are just a few to have played there – but Vedran Corluka seemed to dispel such worries last term with an excellent year.
Midfield
At 8/13, Tottenham seem certain to finish in the top six, and crucial to their Premier League hopes will be the creative force of Luka Modric, who is set to stay at White Hart Lane despite being linked with numerous moves away from north London.
Having switched from defence to midfield, Gareth Bale was a revelation on the left flank last season, and the young Welshman will again be out to impress as one of Spurs’ chief attacking outlets.
Attack
Jermain Defoe scored 18 league goals during Tottenham’s last campaign, and the England striker is 12/1 to be the Premier League’s top scorer this season.
The pint-sized Defoe has formed an excellent understanding with fellow forward Peter Crouch, who is an interesting 50/1 outside bet to end the season as the Premier League’s leading scorer.
Who do you think will be the Premier League’s top scorer? Wayne Rooney is 5/1 to be the league’s leading marksman. See the full Premier League market.
