Tottenham-Everton: 5 Spurs post match thoughts after the 1-1 draw

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 13: Gerard Deulofeu of Everton and Eric Dier of Tottenham Hotspur challenge for the ball during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park on August 13, 2016 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images) /

2. Victor Wanyama and Eric Dier have no chemistry

Many Tottenham fans were quite surprised to see Eric Dier taken off for Vincent Janssen early in the match’s second half. Not me. It seemed pretty clear that he and Victor Wanyama were getting in one another’s way, and one had to be sacrificed to strengthen the Spurs attack.

I wasn’t sure that Pochettino would bring Dier off instead of Wanyama, but I was pleased at the decision. The Kenyan was the more formidable defensive force in the first half, and Dier looked a bit off the pace. Wanyama played even better in the second half after being given the total responsibility of controlling the defensive midfield.

This likely won’t be a long-term problem for Spurs. Mousa Dembele will come back into the squad after his suspension, and he’s a better partner for either man. Additionally, Wanyama and Dier should grow more comfortable with one another after more time on the practice pitch.

The lack of chemistry between the two defensive midfielders will be a storyline in the early season, but it will be completely forgotten about once December arrives.

Next: Vincent Janssen helps everyone

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