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Tottenham's defensive frailties were on full display during their crushing 6-3 defeat to Liverpool.

One of the key moments in the match was the way Liverpool targeted a particular Tottenham player in their tactical approach.

Radu Dragusin, the young Romanian centre-back, found himself under intense pressure as the Reds sought to exploit his weaknesses in possession.

While Tottenham struggled to maintain any momentum throughout the match, Liverpool’s clear and focused game plan helped them control the game from start to finish.

The home side failed to find any rhythm and were repeatedly caught out as they tried to build attacks from the back. Liverpool, however, had identified where they could take advantage.

Ryan Gravenberch reveals the tactic of targeting Radu Dragusin to secure the win

Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who played a key role in the midfield during the game, revealed the team’s approach after the 6-3 win

According to LFC TV, Gravenberch said that the Reds' strategy was to push Tottenham to build play from the right side, specifically targeting Dragusin.

The 22-year-old Dutchman explained: “We had a really good game plan. We wanted to keep them on the right side and press the right-sided centre-back.”

This tactical focus on Dragusin stems from his perceived weakness in possession, which has been a point of criticism in the past.

While he has shown improvement in recent months, Dragusin’s ball-handling under pressure still remains a potential vulnerability.

Gravenberch's comments suggest that Liverpool were keen to press him, forcing Tottenham to play out from the right and put Dragusin in situations where mistakes could be made.

Despite the concerted efforts from Liverpool, Dragusin's performance wasn’t entirely disastrous.

How has Dragusin performed at Tottenham?

Although he did make a couple of mistakes, particularly under pressure, he generally managed the ball well and made some solid decisions.

This is an important point, as it reflects Dragusin’s growth in recent months, despite being targeted by Liverpool.

Dragusin is still a young player learning the ropes in a high-pressure environment, and this match highlighted the challenges he faces against top-tier teams.

The strategic targeting by Liverpool worked, but it also showcased that Dragusin is continuing to improve and adapt to the demands of Premier League football.

For Tottenham, however, the loss served as a stark reminder of their defensive vulnerabilities and the need for adjustments moving forward.

Ange Postecoglou has won the support of his Tottenham squad since taking over at the club 18 months ago.

The Australian's high-intensity, attacking football has become a trademark of his tenure, and his side have shown plenty of promise on the pitch.

However, despite the general backing from the players, there are some concerns about the sustainability of his open, high-pressing system, especially after heavy defeats like Tottenham's 6-3 loss to Liverpool on Sunday.

The Spurs dressing room is known for its cohesion under Postecoglou, with players respecting the manager's methods and the lack of clashes, unlike previous regimes under Antonio Conte or Jose Mourinho.

Tottenham players are beginning to question Ange Postecoglou's system

According to The Spurs Web, a source inside the club has revealed that some players are starting to question whether the system is too open at times.

These concerns have become more pronounced following the crushing defeat to Liverpool, with many pundits suggesting that Postecoglou may need to tweak his tactics to succeed in the Premier League.

According to the source, the players believe that Postecoglou’s style is more nuanced than the public often perceives, but there is an ongoing debate about whether the team’s defensive fragility needs to be addressed.

“The players like and respect him (Ange). It’s not like with Conte or Mourinho. There is no clash, and his style of play is more nuanced than the outside world sees. But some players do wonder if it’s too open sometimes, that maybe he could switch it up occasionally.”

Despite these concerns, Postecoglou has remained steadfast in his approach, unwilling to change his methods just to appease external critics or even internal doubts.

Ange Postecoglou is clear about his opinion of himself

Quoted by The Daily Mail, Ange Postecoglou continues to have the full backing of the Tottenham squad, with all players supporting him.

He has always been clear about his philosophy, as seen in a past interview where he discussed the lessons learned from his time as manager of Australia's U-20s in 2007.

Reflecting on a period where he compromised his approach to safeguard his job, Postecoglou explained, "It was the only time I thought too much about job preservation. I compromised. The lesson I learned was I could never be successful if I did that."

Postecoglou’s refusal to adapt his tactics comes from a strong belief in his footballing philosophy.

He has vowed to never again compromise his methods for the sake of job security or media pressure, stating, “No one will tell me what to do anymore. Nobody’s gonna put me in a box. Basically, I don’t give a s*** what people think about me anymore.”

The journey hasn’t been smooth for Tottenham striker Richarlison, whose time in North London has been plagued by injuries and inconsistent form.

Once a standout in the Premier League with Everton, the Brazilian has struggled to replicate that success since joining Spurs.

These challenges have sparked rumours of a potential move away from the club, leaving fans curious about what lies ahead for the 27-year-old.

Richarlison’s situation has caught the attention of clubs beyond Europe. In South America, one familiar name is already extending an invitation.

But could a move back to his home continent be the reset he needs, or does he still have unfinished business in Europe?

Thiago Silva expresses interest in seeing Richarlison join Fluminense

Reports have linked Richarlison with a return to Brazil, with Fluminense among the clubs interested in bringing him back.

Former Premier League defender and current Fluminense star Thiago Silva openly expressed his desire to see the Tottenham forward join the Brazilian side.

Speaking via CNN Brasil, Silva stated: "Maybe in the future he could come back. Richarlison has a very big future ahead of him in Europe. Of course, if he decides to come to Fluminense, he’ll be welcome.

He’s going through a difficult time in his career, with injury after injury. But he’s a very good kid. I’m sure it will turn things around and there’s still a lot to do in Europe.”

Silva’s comments reflect support for Richarlison’s potential to overcome his current struggles.

However, the prospect of returning to South America is far from confirmed. At 27, Richarlison is still in his prime and has time to prove himself at the top level in Europe.

Can Richarlison turn things around at Spurs?

The Brazilian’s struggles at Tottenham are undeniable. Injuries have kept him sidelined for much of his tenure, while his performances when fit have failed to meet expectations.

Despite being signed to provide attacking firepower, Richarlison has yet to deliver consistently.

Ange Postecoglou, known for his attacking philosophy, was expected to revitalise Richarlison’s form, but setbacks have persisted.

Fans will remember his impressive stint at Everton, where he proved he could excel in England’s top flight. If luck turns his way, Richarlison could still make an impact at Spurs.

Now, Richarlison stands at a crossroads. Whether he fights to reclaim his form in Europe or opts for a return to Brazil, his next move could define the trajectory of his career.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou faces the tough task of managing a squad plagued by injuries and suspensions, all while maintaining form in the Premier League.

As the festive fixtures approach, one decision has sparked curiosity among fans—why one of Spurs' most consistent contributors has been relegated to the bench.

Despite the challenges, Postecoglou has reassured supporters that his squad management strategy is designed to protect the team in the long run.

His latest comments shed light on how he plans to balance minutes while ensuring Tottenham remain competitive.

Ange Postecoglou promises Brennan Johnson will see more game time

The decision to shuffle players may have left some puzzled, but it highlights Postecoglou's intent to navigate the busy schedule without overburdening key members of the squad.

Brennan Johnson has been a standout performer for Tottenham this season, with 10 goals and three assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.

However, the Wales international has gone six games without scoring, and this dip in form has coincided with his recent benching.

According to The Boy Hotspur, during a Christmas Eve press conference, Postecoglou addressed Johnson’s situation: “Brennan just needs to keep doing what he’s doing, I’ve had Deki (Dejan Kulusevski) there and he’s done really well and scoring goals."

Postecoglou’s comments suggest that rotation is essential to prevent further injuries in a squad already stretched thin.

Despite limited minutes in recent matches, Johnson has continued to contribute, even providing an assist in Tottenham’s 6-3 loss to Liverpool.

The manager reassured fans and Johnson that the winger’s return to the starting lineup is imminent: “Brennan will get his minutes.”

Tottenham players' medical update

In addition to managing Johnson’s playing time, Postecoglou offered positive updates on squad fitness.

Destiny Udogie, who was deemed not fully fit against Liverpool, is expected to be ready for the Boxing Day clash with Nottingham Forest.

Furthermore, Rodrigo Bentancur’s return from suspension provides a timely boost to the team’s midfield options.

Postecoglou confirmed: "Destiny was on the bench but wasn’t 100% quite right and should be right. Bentancur is available after his suspension. That’s kind of it for now.”

With Tottenham sitting just outside the European spots, managing player workload will be crucial as they aim to climb the Premier League table.

Johnson’s contributions, paired with the squad’s growing depth, could prove vital in the coming weeks.

Tottenham Hotspur’s latest Premier League outing has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike.

While their attack offered glimpses of hope, it was their defensive frailties that became the focal point of conversation.

One voice leading the discussion is former footballer and analyst Clinton Morrison, whose sharp observations have left Spurs supporters reflecting on their team's direction.

Sunday's clash against a dominant Liverpool side was always going to be a tough test for Tottenham. However, few expected the scoreline to spiral the way it did.

The Lilywhites’ attempts to stage a late comeback showed determination but ultimately highlighted glaring issues in their overall setup.

Clinton Morrison delivers sharp critique

With Spurs now trailing in the race for Champions League qualification, the questions surrounding their tactical approach and defensive organisation are growing louder.

The 6-3 defeat to Liverpool was not just another bad day at the office for Tottenham. It was a performance that laid bare their defensive vulnerabilities.

Morrison, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, did not hold back in his assessment.

“Spurs are the most entertaining team in the Premier League — at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium you are guaranteed goals,” he remarked. “The big gaps Spurs allowed Liverpool, it made me upset. They are so frustrating."

Morrison attributed some of the issues to the team’s injury struggles, including Rodrigo Bentancur’s suspension: "Spurs fans want attractive football, but they are not even in the top 10. I get there have been injuries to the spine of the team, and they have lost Rodrigo Bentancur to suspension, but everyone has injuries."

Still, he emphasised that every team faces setbacks: “Even with your best XI you can’t go toe to toe with Liverpool. But he (Ange Postecoglou) is not going to change, he’s not going to keep the media onside."

How are Tottenham performing currently?

The loss puts Tottenham 11th in the league, a staggering seven points behind the Champions League spots. It also leaves them with just three wins from their last 11 matches across all competitions.

Tottenham’s schedule does not get any easier. Their Boxing Day trip to face Nottingham Forest, one of the league’s in-form teams, looms large. Following that, they host Wolverhampton, a side desperate for points.

Postecoglou still retains significant fan support, with many chanting his name even during the Liverpool debacle.

However, as Morrison pointed out, their current trajectory needs addressing if they are to salvage their season.

Spurs have shown they can entertain, but it’s time to prove they can compete consistently, especially against top-tier teams.

Whether Postecoglou tweaks his approach or stays resolute in his philosophy will define their upcoming fixtures — and perhaps their entire campaign.

There was optimism around the fanbase when Tottenham Hotspur announced the signing of Archie Gray from Leeds United in the summer. Despite being 17 for much of the 23/24 season, he had played a key part in Leeds’ season, and started the play-off final against Southampton in May. The acquisition made Gray the fourth most expensive 18-year old of all time.

Shoutout to Archie Gray amidst the tough hand given to him

What most fans assumed is that the teenager would play a fair chunk of games in midfield, whilst filling in at full-back if and when required. We are two days away from Christmas, and he has yet to start again in midfield.

He has come on in midfield a couple of times, whilst starting at right-back, left-back, and now as a central defender. All in a hugely makeshift backline + keeper, as well as even a makeshift midfield in front of him at times.

So, it is not just playing in defence that isn’t optimal. He is playing next to Radu Dragusin, who is clearly out of his depth. The only fit natural centre half. On the right side you have an absolutely shattered Pedro Porro, who is consistently out of position at the moment.

If the 18-year old played in a back four with Djed Spence (or a fresh Pedro Porro), one of Cristian Romero or Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie next month – you would be able to see top performances, even at centre-half. There is being dropped into the deep end, and there is what Gray has had to endure this season.

Even in the Liverpool game, whilst not perfect – it’s pretty impossible to be when you concede six – there were still some good moments. For the second Mohamed Salah goal, he was unbelievably lucky. He did incredibly well to cut out a Cody Gakpo cross, that fell to Dominik Szoboszlai, whose shot was blocked by Gray, before falling to Salah. Poor guy.

Albeit poor opposition, he showed several good moments against Southampton, and made a brilliant intervention late on to keep the clean sheet in tact. He had another fairly good performance against Manchester United, with the goals not a lot to do with him.

Something Ange should consider is playing the England U21 international on the right, with Dragusin on the left. The Romanian defender is awful on the ball regardless, and playing Gray on the left side limits his angles somewhat. If they swapped, he would be able to carry it out of defence with greater ease.

Ideally, he will eventually be moved to central midfield, though this experience will help him in the future. You win or you learn in football. Would really love to see Gray and Pape Sarr patrolling the midfield together at some point.

Over in Spain, there was a final round of La Liga games before the winter break. Despite there being 38 games (Bundesliga has 34), the next round of fixtures will take place in mid-January.

With this final round of games, there were games for two Spurs loanees. On Saturday, Bryan Gil and his Girona side were in action at home to Real Valladolid. Meanwhile, on Sunday, Alejo Veliz and his RCD Espanyol side were in action away to Las Palmas.

Mixed weekend in Spain ahead of the annual winter break

We begin with Girona. For this game, manager Michel deployed Gil on the left in a 343 set up. Often, that would be as a number ten; but both the Tottenham loanee and his counterpart Yaser Asprilla were used very wide.

As for the collective, Gil’s side would get back to winning ways, as they dispatched their visitors with a 3-0 win. Former Spurs forward Arnaut Danjuma scored the third goal off the bench. Ex goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga started in goal, keeping a clean sheet.

Whilst he did not score or assist, it would still be a solid enough shift from Gil, who recorded; two shots, 65 touches, 33 accurate passes, 1/1 accurate long balls, 5/8 ground duels won, two fouls drawn, and two tackles. He was replaced after 83 minutes.

This win leaves Girona in 8th place heading into the winter break, with 25 points from their 18 games to date. Overall a pretty decent start to the season, considering all of the top players that they lost in the summer.

Meanwhile, Veliz was once again on the bench for Espanyol, as he continues to struggle for regular minutes of late. The striker did come off the bench, unlike in other recent games— but was unable to make an impact, and his side were condemned to a 1-0 defeat in the Canary Islands.

This defeat leaves Espanyol in 18th place in La Liga, with 15 points from their 18 games, as they continue to take up the final relegation spot. Real Valladolid are bottom of the league, with 12 points from 18 games — so Gil’s Girona side have done Espanyol a favour.

Next up after the break for Gil and Girona is an away game against Alaves, whilst Veliz and Espanyol are in action against Leganes. Both games are on the 11th of January, so there will be more of a preview closer to the time.

On Sunday afternoon, for the final Premier League game before Christmas, Spurs welcomed Liverpool to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

For the task at hand, Ange opted for a line up of; Forster; Porro, Gray, Dragusin, Spence; Bissouma, Sarr; Kulusevski, Maddison, Son; Solanke.

Spurs on the wrong side of another Kamikaze game at home

Within the first three minutes of the game, a loose pass from Forster was intercepted by Mohamed Salah, who dragged his shot into the side netting - but the warning signs were there.

Around ten minutes in, a ball in behind from Trent Alexander-Arnold found Salah, who was denied by Forster. The loose ball fell to Domink Szoboszlai, whose effort was very well blocked by Sarr.

Seven minutes or so later, Salah had two shots in quick succession following a cutback, with both being well blocked by Spence. Moments the later, the forward shifted the ball onto his right foot, before hitting the crossbar.

Midway through the first half, the expected goal came. From the right hand side, an inviting Alexander-Arnold cross was headed home by Luis Diaz to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. Cannot say it wasn't coming.

With ten minutes of the first half remaining, it was two. After a cross came in from the left, the ball fell to Alexis Mac Allister, who managed to nod in to double the visitors lead.

Soon before the interval, Spurs had a lifeline. After a collision and tangle of legs between Mac Allister and Kulusevski, the ball dropped to Maddison, who curled a lovely strike from inside the D, for his eighth Premier League goal of the season.

However, it would not be enough for a one goal deficit at half time. Alexander-Arnold played a long ball over the Spurs press, where Szoboszlai beat Dragusin the air, playing the ball into the path of Salah, who played it back to the Hungarian international in behind, keeping his composure when through on goal to make it 3-1.

Fewer than ten minutes into the second half, it was 4-1. After a quick counter, Gakpo squared the ball for Salah, which was cut out by Gray. The ball fell to Szoboszlai, whose shot was blocked by Gray again, but the ball fell to the Egyptian forward, who could not miss.

Very soon after, Szobozslai went through on goal, straight from an Alisson long ball, but dragged wide from an angle. In the aftermath, Ange introduced Bergvall and Johnson for Maddison and Sarr.

Sadly, it would get worse. On the hour mark, Liverpool once again attacked with ease, and there was Salah for his second goal of the game to make it 4-1.

With just under twenty minutes to go, Ange's side had a second. After Kulusevski found Solanke, the striker scooped a through ball back to the midfielder, via a slight deflection from Van Dijk - with the 24-year old raking a finish past Alisson.

We had played around 82 minutes when Spurs had three. After a ball came in, Johnson headed the ball across the box to Solanke, who showed great athleticism to turn and fire the ball into the back of the net. Great goal.

Any hope of a miracle was soon gone, however, as Diaz scored his second goal of the game from the right hand side to make it 6-3 to Arne Slot's side. That would be that, and Spurs were condemned to a defeat.

To wrap up the EFL, there was League Two action for Tottenham Hotspur loanee George Abbott and his Notts County side, as they hosted Bradford City on Saturday afternoon.

Fruitful afternoon at the office for side of Spurs teenager

For this game, having played as a number ten last time, the Tottenham teenager was moved deeper, playing next to captain Matt Palmer, as he so often has done this season.

After a goalless first 27 minutes or so, everything changed within five minutes. With 28 minutes on the clock, Alassana Jatta gave Stuart Maynard’s side the lead, with a finish from close range. Three minutes later, veteran David McGoldrick doubled the lead from near enough the same spot.

Then, just a minute later, Jatta got his second and Notts third goal of the game, with a finish from just inside the box. These three goals within five minutes of each other would be enough to give the Magpies the lead, with no goals after that for either team.

Safe to say this win was very much needed for everyone involved. Notts had not won a League Two game since the 26th of October, when they overcame Harrogate Town with a 1-0 win at home. They had picked up just one point from their previous four league outings.

As for Abbott on an individual level, not one of his standout performances, and without the usual feedback he gets from the Notts faithful. However, he did play the 90 minutes, and in a 3-0 win, so it nice to see Maynard once again show that faith and trust in him. The 19-year old has now clocked 1219 minutes in the league so far this season, as well as another 180 minutes in the FA Cup – where he scored his first ever senior goal.

This win propels his side back into the play-off spots, as they occupy 7th, the final position – with 31 points from their 20 games so far. Despite the recent form before this game, it has been a fairly productive start to the season for Notts so far. That too, and a very good season for Abbott individually.

Next up for his side is a League Two game against MK Dons on Boxing Day. It is a big one, as MK currently occupy 9th place, just two places and one point below Notts, whilst having a game in hand too. Kick off for that one is the traditional 15:00 GMT.

On Saturday afternoon, there was a clash of the Spurs loanees in League One. Matthew Craig and his Barnsley side were in action at home to Josh Keeley, Jamie Donley, and their Leyton Orient counterparts.Â

Find out how the duel between loanees ended up playing out

Despite having played just one minute of football since October, Craig was named in Darrell Clarke’s starting XI for this game. Meanwhile, Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley continued their run of starts under Richie Wellens.Â

In the battle of the loanees in midfield, it would be Donley who drew first blood. Just six minutes into the game, the teenager headed home at the back post from a corner, to give Orient the lead in the game.Â

Then, after 28 minutes, it was Donley’s turn to take a corner. He did just that, whipping in an inswinging ball, that was met by central defender Omar Beckles, who headed home to make it 2-0 to the O’s.Â

Eight minutes later, things would go from bad to worse for Craig. With Barnsley seriously struggling in the game, Clarke made a double substitution before half-time, and the 21-year old loanee was one of two players sacrificed.Â

However, it did not work. Six minutes into the second half, Orient had three. Having been go found by Donley, striker Charlie Kelman converted— making it one goal and two assists for the on loan Spurs man.

After 81 minutes, Donley was replaced after a really productive day at the office. In stoppage time, Orient would add one more to put the gloss on things with a whopping 4-0 win.Â

In goal, Keeley registered his fourth clean sheet in a row, with just the one save to make here. Perfect afternoon for the Spurs loanees at Orient.

This goal for Donley was his first ever in professional football. After the game, the midfielder joked at how Keeley kept reminding him he had scored more goals this season.

This win leaves Wellens side in 15th place in League One, with 25 points from 20 games. Meanwhile, Clarke’s side are in 9th place, with 30 points from 21. There was a time where Orient were in the bottom four, at the same time Barnsley were in the top six. Now, Clarke’s side are just five points ahead, having played a game more.Â

Next up is Boxing Day action for both games. Orient host Crawley Town at 13:00 GMT, whilst Barnsley travel to Bolton Wanderers for a 15:00 GMT kick off.Â