“It was frustrating,” Howells says. “The highs are really good. If it works, we will be unstoppable, like we were against City.”
“Similarly, if it's bad, it's school mistakes, not being able to fit together. I would trade excellence for consistency, a middle ground.”
“We should have made it 2-1 against Roma, but we didn't get more out of it in the second half. We have to be fully operational. But it’s in our DNA to think ahead.”
Fans fear the Tottenham players have a psychological problem because they were so impressive against the reigning champions, only to fail to win the following two games. Spurs have not won consecutive league games since the end of September.
“The mentality change among the players has to happen,” says Paouros. “You feel like you have the right to win against Brighton and Ipswich but nobody is entitled to anything. Nobody wins every game.”
However, Speechly believes the problem lies with the coach.
“I was wrestling with thoughts about Ange. When he came in I was all in and he got off to a fantastic start. This season I’m frustrated with his stubbornness.”
“But there is no point in being frustrated with his tactical approach because he has made it clear that this is how he will play, it is a waste of energy.”
Ultimately, Spurs fans will be hoping that Angeball can be successful this season.
Spurs still compete in all three cups and are in touch with the top four of the Premier League. Postecoglou has spoken about always winning a trophy in his second season – fans will now have to hope that becomes a reality in north London.
“This stuff takes a lot of time to get used to, running and pressing that way and just playing from the back,” Paouros says.
“Look at Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp had to get everything sorted – in the first two seasons they finished outside the top four.”
