Man United vs Tottenham: 5 players who could change the game on their own| Premier League 2019/20

Man United vs Tottenham: 5 players who could change the game on their own in the Premier League encounter between the Red Devils and Spurs.

Manchester United and Tottenham started the season very similarly. Both clubs started the league with victories but continued to struggle under mid-table sides and away matches. United left for the international break with a swing of favourable results. Tottenham on the other hand were staring at the lights.

Also read: How have the Red Devils and Spurs fared against each other in the last 5 seasons

Daniel Levy then made the brave decision of replacing Mauricio Pochettino with Jose Mourinho. Tottenham have since won their last 3 matches in all competitions and have even recorded the elusive away win when they beat West Ham; their first since January.

Manchester United on the other hand, have recorded a loss and 2 draws since the international break. With the gap between them and the top 4 increasing every week, the Red Devils will have to win matches consistently or they will have to settle for Europe once again; or even worse, no European football at all.

Despite the impressive start under Mourinho though, Spurs have continued to look suspect in their defence and will have to sort that out if they intend to claim a place in the top 4. Tottenham will look to continue their winning streak at the Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Here are the 5 players who can swing the fortunes in the favour of their club during the Man United vs Tottenham match.

#5) Toby Alderweireld

Mourinho has a reputation of playing defensive football instead of a free-flowing football. In his short stay at Tottenham so far, he has chosen to play a rather attacking based game. It is true that Spurs have the players to play a more aggressive game, the main reason for the change however, is their shambolic defence.

It is apparent that Mourinho does not trust the backline and why would he? While the team has scored 10 goals in their last 3 matches, they have also conceded 6. 2 goals in every match. They may have managed to outscore their opponents but will be not fortunate enough to do every time; especially against tougher opponents.

This is where Toby Alderweireld comes in. The centre back can take the responsibility of the backline just as other defensive generals have done so under Mourinho in the past. He will have to step up and take the John Terry or Sergio Ramos role and martial the defence.

The fact that Alderweireld perfectly fits into Mourinho’s long ball system is an added bonus. The Belgian’s ability to send a perfect long ball to his teammates, can allow the forwards to play their natural game while the defence remain more compact.

If Alderweireld plays the role asked of him perfectly, there is no reason why the Man United vs Tottenham match will not end with Spurs bagging 3 points. United’s defence after all, has been just as shaky as theirs without having the same quality in their forwards.