Spurs will want to bounce back from a disappointing showing at the weekend, but injuries make it difficult for Thomas Frank to address the problem area.
The 1-1 draw with Wolves on Saturday night wasn’t the result many were expecting. Wolves were good value for their lead, though, looking like the better side for much of the 90 minutes.
A stoppage-time equaliser from Joao Palhinha rescued a point for Spurs, but the overall attacking display left a lot to be desired.
Since Frank’s arrival, the team has looked much improved on the defensive end, but going forward, they have struggled to create consistently. A change to the forward line would be welcomed, but it’s made very difficult by injuries to the viable replacements.
Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani not in training ahead of Bodo/Glimt
Spurs have missed a real presence at centre-forward, with Richarlison’s early-season form fading somewhat. He did pop up with a goal against Brighton, but his overall play hasn’t caused too many issues for opposing centre-backs in recent games.
The Brazilian is a workhorse, capable of producing moments of magic and impacting games. But as a starting striker, he doesn’t possess some of the attributes Frank needs in that position.
The Dane would probably like to try something different up top, but with Dominic Solanke still not back and Randal Kolo Muani dealing with a small issue, there isn’t much in the way of alternatives.
As good a servant to Spurs as Richarlison is, the other two are better options to play as a sole striker. The sooner they return, the sooner Spurs can reach the level Frank wants going forward.
Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Bodo/Glimt should be a mismatch, and whoever starts up front will be expected to do well. But the fixtures are about to take a turn for the worse, and Frank will be praying for one of Solanke or Kolo Muani to be back firing by then.
Richarlison should still get minutes with everyone fit
To say the other strikers are needed back isn’t to say Richarlison is a bad option. On the contrary, he has looked great at times this season, and Frank clearly appreciates his industrious nature.
Xavi Simons is wasted on the left, and the two young Frenchmen, Mathys Tel and Wilson Odobert, won’t take up all the minutes.
Richarlison can play that position, and play it well.
If we’re right, and Frank will opt more for the other two strikers, it shouldn’t mean the Brazilian warms the bench for the season.
He should get a decent crack on the left flank, and he can also be a valuable impact player off the bench in any of the forward positions.
He’s just not the starting number nine Spurs need right now.
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