EPL 2016/17: Liverpool 2-0 Tottenham Hotspur, 5 talking points

Modified Feb 12, 2017 07:02 GMT

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: Sadio Mane (2nd R) of Liverpool celebrates scoring his side's second goal with his team mate Philippe Coutinho (1st R) during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on February 11, 2017 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images for Tottenham Hotspur FC) — Liverpool are now fourth in the league table after a 2-0 win over Spurs

#2 Spurs don't have the squad depth to cover for injuries to key men

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: Kyle Walker (C) of Tottenham Hotspur and team mates leave the pitch after the Premier League match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on February 11, 2017 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images for Tottenham Hotspur FC) — Spurs are struggling to cope with injuries to Danny Rose and Jan Vertonghen

After a brilliant last few games, Spurs emerged as leaders of the chasing pack that would challenge Chelsea till the end for the Premier League crown. They were playing resolutely in a 3-4-2-1 formation with their defence being best in the league until now.

However, injuries to Danny Rose and Jan Vertonghen forced Pochettino to change the formation to a 4-2-3-1 with Ben Davies handling the left flank. The Welshman, though, had a torrid time against Sadio Mane, who had him for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Spurs’ ploy of playing a high line against a pacy side as Liverpool also flopped, leading to more trouble at the back

Edited by Staff Editor