Jan Vertonghen had a North London derby to forget. The Belgian gave away an early penalty with a ridiculous handball and was then sent off late in the game as we were losing the tie.
Spurs lost the game 4-2 to Arsenal and even saw our rivals move above us into a top-four place. The defeat hurts a lot more given that we came into the game on the back of a couple of quality wins over Chelsea and Inter Milan.
Vertonghen was started in the back ahead of Toby Alderweireld, and the Belgian had only returned from injury in our win over Inter.
The 31-year-old possibly couldn’t deal with another high-velocity game after the Inter clash a few days ago, and won’t play a part in our game against Southampton in midweek.
Vertonghen is still one of the best defenders in the Premier League, but some Tottenham fans were unhappy with the performance of the Belgian yesterday.
Deservedly beat. Awful all over today. Some spurs fans don’t think it’s a big deal if Toby leaves. Vertonghen and Foyth were atrocious. Give him whatever wages he wants and a £5m signing on fee.
— Richard Holmes (@richolmestwit) December 2, 2018
What we found out from this game vs Arsenal:
– Foyth’s inexperienced exposed!
– Vertonghen rusty, not ready!
– Rose > Davies in big games!
– Defensive midfielder needed!
– Formation promising, but needs more work! #THFC #COYS
— Harry Hotspur (@HarryHotspurWHL) December 2, 2018
Vertonghen wasn’t supposed to start that game. He was so bad from the first kick.
Sissoko should have come off for Winks or Moura.
Dele Alli underperformed as well and should have come off sooner.
Poch shot himself in the foot really.— Edwards Adjaino (@edwardsadjaino) December 2, 2018
It was baffling we played such a high line with Vertonghen, who’s missed two months and has only appeared in 1 match since. His reactions were so slow and it showed today, especially with pace gifted strikers like Aubameyang and Lacazette.
— Ryan (@ryan_moniz) December 2, 2018
Hate to say it but this result is on Poch. Vertonghen has made some silly mistakes, correct; but having to deal with the shambles going on around him jeeeeez 🤦🏻♀️ #COYS
— Jessica O’Leary-Nash (@jolearynash) December 2, 2018
