Tottenham player ratings at Rochdale: Nightmares for Toby and Winks

Toby Alderweireld-3

Alderweireld entered this match hoping to convince Pochettino he’s ready to start big matches again. To put it very mildly, he didn’t do anything to improve his stock.

The talented Belgian began the match by falling all over the place. Yes, the pitch was a bit dodgy, but you didn’t see other Spurs players struggling so mightily. Some would say he was fortunate not to give away a first half penalty after falling over the ball in his own penalty area.

He steadied himself for the middle third of the match, but then absolutely gave Rochdale their final goal. He flicked the ball on to Davies that allowed Rochdale to have their magical moment in the FA Cup. Alderweireld couldn’t have his a better ball to Davies if he’d been trying to send him through intentionally.

I’m not sure if Alderweireld’s struggles are down to his fitness levels or his mental condition. Either way, he’s not going to dislodge Davinson Sanchez from the starting XI until he shows Pochettino much better play. Much of the responsibility for this draw lies directly at Alderweireld’s feet.

Juan Foyth-7

While Alderweireld was a dumpster fire, young Juan Foyth played a pretty competent match for Pochettino. His defensive positioning wasn’t perfect, but he looked very cool and composed with the ball at his feet.

The inexperienced Argentine isn’t ready to break into Pochettino’s starting XI anytime soon, but he did show enough to stay in the club’s long-term plans. Even if he never breaks in as a starter, he should provide Spurs with quality depth at the centre back position.