Tottenham Hotspur have had a busy winter transfer window, with Jose Mourinho keen on undergoing a major overhaul after replacing Mauricio Pochettino earlier this season. The Lilywhites have secured two signings in Steven Bergwijn and Gedson Fernandes while Giovani Lo Celso’s loan move was made permanent.
In this article, we will discuss how Mourinho could make the best use of Spurs’ new signings during the remainder of the campaign.
Giovani Lo Celso: The designated replacement for Eriksen?
Spurs fans were hit by the departure of Christian Eriksen to Inter Milan this January. But fortunately for them, the club simultaneously announced the permanent signing of Lo Celso.
The Argentine has done really well in recent weeks. His ability to link up attackers and provide the creative essence in the final third could help Tottenham fill the void of Eriksen to an extent. And unlike the Dane, Lo Celso is comfortable in playing in various roles, including central midfield as well as right-wing.
Therefore, the permanent signing of this ex-PSG star is undoubtedly a masterstroke by Mourinho. The Portuguese mastermind should mainly look to utilise him in a wide role as long as Harry Kane is out, thus allowing Lucas Moura to feature in a more central role. Alternatively, he can also be deployed in the attacking midfield role, alongside Dele Alli.
Steven Bergwijn
Bergwijn was an interesting signing for Tottenham. It is also complicated to determine as to where Mourinho can utilise his qualities.
A left-winger, by trade, Bergwijn can fare anywhere across the final third. That means he can start ahead of Moura in the false nine role, where his scoring prowess could make him a better option than the Brazilian, who has wasted a lot of chances this season. However, for the time being, Bergwijn looks better fitted in a central role, with Moura and Son Heung-Min operating out wide.
But, the return of Kane could force the Dutchman to compete with the likes of Erik Lamela, Moura and Son for a place in the starting lineup.
Gedson Fernandes
Gedson was an important acquisition for Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites clearly lacked the presence of a reliable holding midfielder, with Eric Dier lacking technical prowess while Harry Winks failing to impress against top clubs. Victor Wanyama, meanwhile, is still stuck at the club despite his lack of game-time.
Gedson, therefore, could compete with the likes of Moussa Sissoko and Winks for a place in the first team. His competitive nature and defensive attributes could make him a decent fit in the number six slot, with Sissoko and Tanguy Ndombele in a slightly advanced role.
