Former Chelsea forward Pat Nevin provided insights following Tottenham's impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester United.
The ex-Scottish winger shared his observations on the match, delving into the factors that contributed to Spurs' success and pinpointing areas where United fell short.
Nevin's assessment encompassed both the tactical brilliance of Ange Postecoglou and Manchester United's recurring vulnerability in away matches. The Chelsea legend opined while speaking to BBC Sport: "Spurs deservedly beat Manchester United 2-0, but was this Ange Postecoglou's magic or United's familiar weakness away from home again? Probably a bit of both."
Nevin highlighted the remarkable contributions of individuals such as the dynamic Yves Bissouma and the industrious 20-year-old Pape Matar Sarr, along with the lively presence of James Maddison. These players emphasised the contrast in youthful midfield energy between the two teams.
Nevin also noted the absence of full-match fitness for Mason Mount, while pointing out the challenge faced by the accomplished Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, who were outpaced by their younger opponents.
United's wingers, Antony and Garnacho, struggled to find their rhythm early in the season, compounded by the team's midfield struggles. Nevin remarked: "United's wingers Antony and Garnacho have yet to get into gear this season and their style isn't a great help when the engine room is backfiring anyway."
Ange Postecoglou's innovative tactics came under Nevin's scrutiny as he praised the audacious decision to involve young full-backs Destiny Udogie (20) and Pedro Porro (23) as central midfielders during possession from the back.
Nevin noted, "Ange's big tactical ploy was to get both young full-backs, Destiny Udogie (20) and Pedro Porro (23) to become central midfielders when they had possession at the back. This is brave stuff, even Pep usually only allows one of his full-backs to step in there at a time! It worked, underlining Postecoglou already has 'buy-in' from the youngsters in the group."
Turning his attention back to United, Nevin acknowledged Marcus Rashford's potential but stressed the importance of providing him with adequate service upfront. He expressed optimism about Rasmus Hojlund's return to fitness, as it would enable Rashford to play in a wider and deeper position facing the goal, thereby enhancing United's chances of securing a top-four spot.
Nevin concluded: "As for United, Rashford could well be in the form of his life, but you will not be able to tell if he doesn't get decent service upfront. The quicker Rasmus Hojlund can get fit, allowing Marcus to play wider and deeper facing the goal, not with his back to it, the more likely they will make the top four."
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