In a rollercoaster encounter at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, manager Ange Postecoglou’s team put on an entertaining display but ultimately succumbed to a heavy 6-3 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday (December 22). The Australian’s attacking philosophy is under the microscope, with glaring questions surfacing regarding his team’s defensive capabilities, particularly concerning Radu Dragusin, who seemed to struggle against Liverpool's dynamic attacking trio.
The match served as a festive spectacle filled with goals, as Arne Slot's side solidified their position at the top of the league. The visitors showcased their offensive prowess with strikes from Luis Diaz (23', 85'), Alexis Mac Allister (36'), Dominik Szoboszlai (45+1'), and a brace from Mohamed Salah (54', 61').
Nevertheless, Tottenham’s goal-scoring efforts were bolstered by contributions from James Maddison (41'), Dejan Kulusevski (72'), and Dominic Solanke (83'), who ensured Spurs found the net despite their struggles at the back.
Defensively, Postecoglou's men exhibited worrying vulnerabilities, with Dragusin repeatedly caught out of position during the first half. The Romanian defender arrived from Genoa in January for a hefty £27 million, having initially stirred excitement among fans after his previous exploits, which included fending off competition from Bayern Munich for his signature.
As the Lilywhites’ sole defensive signing this year, his task of covering for the injured Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero has proven challenging, and doubts are beginning to creep in following a dismal performance against Liverpool. With January’s transfer window on the horizon, it may be time for Postecoglou to explore potential upgrades.
Radu Dragusin Finds Himself Under Pressure Amid Spurs’ Defensive Woes
During the match, Dragusin lined up alongside 18-year-old Archie Gray in a makeshift back four that was far from ideal to confront a Liverpool side brimming with attacking flair. The way Liverpool's Salah, Diaz, and Szoboszlai penetrated the Spurs' defence was at times jaw-dropping.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Tottenham must seize this opportunity to rectify their defensive issues, which may signal trouble for Dragusin, who continues to falter in North London.
The defensive outing against Liverpool was telling, as Dragusin has had ample opportunities to establish himself, starting in 16 competitive matches and helping the team secure five clean sheets.
However, his positional awareness was suspect, with several moments leading to unchecked threats in the penalty area. Dragusin's typically aggressive style of play was curiously absent, and he struggled to maintain possession, often giving the ball away needlessly.
Radu Dragusin Statistics Against Liverpool
Minutes Played: 90'
Clearances: 6
Interceptions: 1
Aerial Duels Won: 3 (1 lost)
Possession Lost: 14
Accurate Passes: 63/77 (82%)
Long Balls: 11 (1 successful)
Key Statistic: Tottenham have conceded 16 out of 25 Premier League goals with Dragusin starting.
Rumours are swirling around a potential move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who could represent a notable upgrade on Dragusin. The Euro 2024 star has been a standout for the Eagles over several seasons, although he may command a hefty fee upwards of £65 million.
All statistics sourced from SofaScore - as recorded on 22/12/2024.
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Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz both netted braces as Liverpool prevailed in a thrilling nine-goal contest against Spurs in North London.