Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou to make Pape Matar Sarr call for Nottingham Forest clash post Newcastle display
Pape Matar Sarr did not particularly stand out as a bad performer against Newcastle, but the Tottenham midfielder needs to perform better versus Nottingham Forest.
Spurs visit the City Ground on Friday, 15 December, and it remains to be seen what Ange Postecoglou decides to do with the midfielder.
He made his first start post his injury in the 4-1 win over Newcastle but there will still be aspects of his that could require working on.
The inability to complete any of his three crosses and two long balls with a zero per cent accuracy [Sofascore] suggests a lack of precision in his distribution, a crucial aspect for a player entrusted with initiating attacks and dictating play from deep positions.
Losing four ground duels and surrendering possession 11 times further underscores the need for improvement in his ball-winning and ball-retention abilities.
As a defensive midfielder, these statistics are concerning, as maintaining possession and winning physical battles are fundamental to the position’s responsibilities.
Postecoglou wants to play a possession-based system and he will want a little more from his midfielders so it remains to be seen if he does start Sarr for it.
Looking ahead to the match against Nottingham Forest, the Senegal international must refine his decision-making, passing accuracy and defensive contributions to provide more stability and control in the midfield.
Tottenham will likely face different challenges against Forest and Sarr’s adaptability and improved performance in these key areas will be crucial for Spurs to assert dominance in the midfield battle.
Consistency and growth in these aspects will be essential for Sarr to fulfil his role effectively and contribute positively to Tottenham’s overall team performance.
It’s a good thing they returned to winning ways but Forest boss Steve Cooper is fighting for his job and the crowd are going to be fully behind the side as he is a popular figure there.
In other Tottenham Hotspur news, a player is mooted to have suffered a setback in his rehabilitation and now may be out for longer than first expected.