Tottenham Hotspur redeemed themselves from their opening weekend setback with a thrilling attacking performance against Everton at home on Saturday. Despite facing considerable pressure, Ange Postecoglou’s team showcased their attacking prowess and reminded the league of their potential.
What made the display even more notable was the absence of their new star striker, Dominic Solanke, who is sidelined with an ankle injury and may not return until after the international break. This injury underscores the team’s current vulnerability in attack. With the transfer window still open, Daniel Levy has a few days left to bolster Postecoglou’s attacking options.
Spurs might not need to look far for reinforcement, as they were linked earlier this month with a promising player who could impact Richarlison’s game time.
**Why Spurs Signed Solanke**
Despite their exciting style of play last season and numerous scoring opportunities, Spurs finished only seventh in goals scored. According to Understat, they underperformed their open-play expected goals by 5.55, highlighting a need for improvement. Consequently, Levy and his team pursued a new number nine to capitalize on their chances, eventually acquiring Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke for a hefty £65 million. Solanke, who netted 21 goals and provided four assists in 42 appearances last season, was seen as a critical addition to address Spurs’ scoring shortcomings.
However, with Solanke now injured, Postecoglou must rely on other options, including Richarlison, who has struggled since his transfer. An ideal alternative who has been linked with Spurs is Jonathan David of LOSC Lille.
**David vs. Richarlison**
Jonathan David, heavily linked with Spurs throughout the summer and discussed by football.london’s Alasdair Gold, could be a cost-effective solution. Reports suggest David, with his contract expiring next summer, could be available for around £20 million.
Comparing David to Richarlison reveals a stark contrast in their performance. While Richarlison scored 12 goals and added four assists in 31 appearances last season, David excelled with 26 goals and nine assists in 47 matches, averaging a goal involvement every 1.34 games compared to Richarlison’s 1.93. David’s versatility allows him to play in various attacking roles, potentially partnering effectively with Solanke when fit.
In summary, while signing Solanke has enhanced Spurs’ attack, his injury has exposed the squad’s lack of depth in the striker position. Therefore, securing Jonathan David before the transfer window closes could further strengthen Spurs’ front line.
