Alan Shearer highlights the Ange Postecoglou decision that “worked perfectly” against West Ham

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Tottenham got back to winning ways against London rivals West Ham on Saturday.

Having entered the international break in almost the worst way possible, Spurs returned to Premier League action with a bang – grabbing a much-needed 4-1 win against the Hammers.

With the Brighton collapse still fresh in the minds of Tottenham supporters, a win against one of their fiercest rivals will undoubtedly ease the wounds from the Amex.

Four goals could suggest Spurs made lightwork of Julen Lopetgui’s side but Tottenham did not have it all their own way, going 1-0 behind thanks to a Mohammed Kudus opener.

Dejan Kulusevski would get the Lilywhites level before the half-time whistle but there still was a feeling that Tottenham needed to vastly improve heading into the second half.

Ange Postecoglou recognised this and would soon make a change that would transform the fortunes of Spurs in the second half.

• READ MORE: ‘Pivotal’… Tottenham fans blown away by Spurs player who didn’t get on scoresheet v West Ham

Alan Shearer’s praises Ange Postecoglou’s “big call”

Heading into the second half, Postecoglou would surprise fans with his half-time substitution – a midfield change that would see Pape Matar Sarr replace James Maddison.

The Aussie’s substitution would ultimately work a treat as Spurs ran out 4-1 winners and Alan Shearer has since praised the Tottenham boss for his tactical change.

Shearer has previously stated he is a ‘fan’ of Maddison, but the ex-Newcastle forward lauded Postecoglou’s decision to substitute the Spurs midfielder – whilst speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast.

“It was a huge call and big change taking Maddison off at half-time,” Shearer said.

“I thought it was the correct decision and it made a huge difference. They scored three goals in nine or ten minutes and he was vindicated in doing that.

“They took a lot of flack for the way they were beaten at Brighton, being two and not protecting the game, yet they 1-1 at half-time and he made a big change and it worked perfectly for him.”

James Maddison substitution is starting to become a worrying trend

Maddison’s substitution in the win over West Ham game is yet another example of Postecoglou’s tendency to withdraw the 27-year-old in the second half of games.

The former Leicester City man has started every single one of Tottenham’s Premier League games this season – but the midfielder is yet to finish a full ninety.

Postecoglou recently changed Maddison’s position, with the Englishman dropping deeper in midfield in recent weeks.

Despite Maddison enjoying success in his new midfield slot, the Spurs man seemingly still cannot complete a full ninety minutes – whether that is down to tactics or fitness we will have to wait to find out.