Playing for 90
Fansided

5 reasons Tottenham will overcome Middlesbrough

By Rucker Haringey

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Erik Lamela of Tottenham celebrates after scoring their fifth goal during the EFL Cup Third Round match between Tottenham Hotspur and Gillingham at White Hart Lane on September 21, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images )
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Erik Lamela of Tottenham celebrates after scoring their fifth goal during the EFL Cup Third Round match between Tottenham Hotspur and Gillingham at White Hart Lane on September 21, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images ) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 6
Next
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Vincent Janssen of Tottenham in action v’s Gillingham during the EFL Cup Third Round match between Tottenham Hotspur and Gillingham at White Hart Lane on September 21, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images )
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Vincent Janssen of Tottenham in action v’s Gillingham during the EFL Cup Third Round match between Tottenham Hotspur and Gillingham at White Hart Lane on September 21, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images ) /

2. Vincent Janssen will come through

I have my doubts as to whether or not Janssen can replace Harry Kane for two months, but I like his chances in the short-term. Expect him to put forth a very energetic effort today against Middlesbrough.

Janssen will be desperate to prove to his teammates that he can lead the line in Kane’s absence. He managed a goal midweek against Gillingham, but that came from the penalty spot. He needs a goal from open play against a Premier League opponent to really silence the doubters.

Frankly, I don’t even believe he needs to find the back of the net today to have a successful outing. He may be of more use to the club for his ability to create chances for others. His holdup play could lead to tremendous scoring chances for whoever Pochettino elects to play in his attacking midfield.

I want to see Janssen play with energy, purpose and drive today. If he does that, and plays to his strengths, he’s going to have a successful opening match in relief of Harry Kane.

Home/Tottenham Hotspur