Tottenham’s defensive frailties came to light once again as the Lilywhites suffered a 3-2 defeat against David Moyes’ Everton at Goodison Park in the Premiership on Sunday, and at the centre of those problems at the back was Radu Dragusin, who endured a torrid 45 minutes. 

The 22-year-old Romanian has been in the limelight at the back this season owing to injuries to Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, with the supporters raising questions about his fit in Ange Postecoglou’s system, and Sunday’s display raised serious questions about his credentials to start in the Premier League, especially for an elite club.

‘Unacceptable’ Dragusin display

The former Genoa centre back’s wrong steps were seen in the hosts second goal of the night when Iliman Ndiaye took an opportunity because of his poor positioning and awareness. 

And former Tottenham defender Michael Dawson has blasted the Romanian international’s defensive efforts by calling it “unacceptable” and taking the matter on having a disorganised defensive line. Dawson insisted that teenage midfielder Archie Gray, who is playing out of position, appeared more composed than Dragusin. 

Speaking on Sky Sports, Dawson said:

“Take nothing away from Ndiaye – it’s brilliant play from Everton. But defensively, Spurs have been all over the place. This defending from Dragusin. I’m sorry, it’s unacceptable.

“Archie Gray has stepped in to get tight to him, it’s flicked around the corner and the distance between Archie Gray and the defender… Dragusin’s got to come off. They’re playing a back-three. They’re all over the place. I can’t believe it, it’s mindblowing.”

Ange Postecoglou also appeared frustrated with the centre back after the 22-year-old was subbed off at halftime for Richarlison.

While there were a lot of interviews from his agent about the lack of opportunities at Tottenham when he was playing as a backup to Van de Ven, Radu hasn’t been able to replicate performances as loud as those noises, and yesterday’s game was a brutal reminder of Dragusin’s limitations at the highest level.

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This leaves the Lilywhites supporters with more questions than answers, as Radu Dragusin’s future at N17 will not be questioned, especially more so if he continues to put in such underwhelming performances.