Our former defender was part of the SPURSPLAY team, providing his analysis for our live coverage of the friendly against the La Liga side from Hotspur Way.
Seb, part of the team that first qualified for the UEFA Champions League in 2010, twice representing Cameroon at the World Cup, had the chance to speak to Andy Robertson after the 1-1 draw, where, after dominating in what became a somewhat tense exercise, Conor Gallagher drew us level.
The conversation focused on the importance of mentality, and went like this…
Seb: “When you conceded the goal, there was a reaction. Technically, I know you will get better. What I was looking for was a reaction. There was a reaction, you looked sharper and that’s how you got the equaliser. How did you feel on the pitch about that?”
Andy: “That's something we have to work on as well. At the end of the day, if you play with Tottenham, you've got the skill and the ability. Our squad is full of that. We have to keep working on the mentality. The last two games we've played, we've shown that against Chelsea - going down to 10 men, you go and nick it at the end. Pre-season is also to drill that home as well - you'll know it. We've been doing that, trying to bring a winning mentality, even in training. Also, it's about fitness. We know that. The sharpness will come. The touches will come. I thought we played some good stuff. Like you said, probably better the last 10-15 minutes, I thought we were better. We've just got to work towards this next week. Obviously, we play in front of our fans on Saturday (Hoffenheim, 3pm). Then, obviously, the good stuff starts.”
Seb: “Talking about mentality - is that something you, personally, with your background, you're looking to add to this team and this club?”
Andy: “I hope so. Obviously, mentality is a big thing in football. Since I've been at this club… the lads are so determined. They've got a real strong mentality. I think they all had to come together, especially in the last part (of last season) when the new manager came in. I think they've carried that into the summer, a determination to not get the club in that position again. It's up to the new lads to come in and help with that. Hopefully, I can be a big part of that and try and help bring a winning mentality here, just help drive the boys forward. Hopefully, we can do that. Then, we'll have a good season.”