The view from Tottenham: 'This will be won on the break'
In this week's view from the opposition, we hear why Liverpool's Premier League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur could be decided by the most dominant team on the counter-attack.
Jürgen Klopp takes his side to White Hart Lane on Saturday, returning to the ground where he oversaw his first match as manager last October.
The Reds will hope to respond to their defeat at Burnley last time out in the league and produce the kind of performance that proved too much for Arsenal on their previous visit to London.
But how will Spurs approach the game? What can Klopp’s men expect from the combination of Vincent Janssen and Harry Kane? And what should travelling supporters be aware of?
Tottenham fan Adam Hawes fills us in…
A win and a draw so far – how satisfied are Spurs fans?
We’re some way off from hitting our top gear. However, we’ve retained our steely defence and the new signings have fitted in nicely. Regardless of a bit of rustiness, you can tell this is a team playing for each other and completely at ease with what their manager wants.
Do you like to have these kinds of big games so early in the season?
I think it’s too soon for both teams. I think Poch and Klopp’s teams this year could be playing the most entertaining football in the Premier League. In a few weeks this could have been one heck of a game. I suspect after the Burnley result, Klopp could be a bit more defensive, although I could be completely wrong.
Is Dele Alli likely to come in or do you expect the team to stay the same?
I suspect Alli will start. He was only on the bench due to sickness early in the week, plus he was such a positive influence when he came on.
What have you made of new striker Vincent Janssen and how – if at all – will Harry Kane’s role be adapted this season?
Janssen’s debut against Everton was impressive and he was arguably Man of the Match against Palace. We’ve seen everything but goals from him so far and the latter is only a matter of time. Just like Harry, it took him a lot of games to start scoring in Holland – but didn’t stop him from being the top scorer. Harry is not a typical No.9 and I think we’ll see a fluid, interchangeable front three or four throughout the season. When it worked last season, it was deadly.
Liverpool have not lost to Spurs in the last seven meetings. Is there an explanation for that?
Good question. Last season we were unlucky not to beat you on both occasions. The previous games – especially before Poch – I’ve done my best to forget.
Where do you think this match will be decided?
On the break. I think Spurs will have more possession but we will need to be patient and not get caught on the break. I think the game will be won by a moment of brilliance.
Any tips for Liverpool fans attending the game?
Arrive well in advance as the construction work has made entry into the stadium a bit more arduous. And remember to say goodbye to the Lane... this could be your last visit!
What is your prediction?
2-1 Spurs – a late winner from Lamela.