FRESH off the back of a 5-0 win in the League Cup second round, the Reds head to White Hart Lane to face a Spurs side that are yet to taste defeat in their first two games. We spoke to Sean Cook of Talking THFC to get the latest on Saturday’s opponents.
Firstly, tell us a bit about yourself, and what you do?
I’ve been running TalkingTHFC for four years now, which has opened up many opportunities in the world of journalism, writing for some of the largest newspapers and websites in the world.
From your memory, what is Spurs’ best and worst moment against Liverpool?
For me, the best in recent years has to be the 4-0 home win, back in 2011. A memorable Luka Modric goal, as well as a rare Emmanuel Adebayor masterclass, in a game that saw two red cards for Liverpool. That game will long live in the memory of Spurs fans.
The worst is simple. The 5-0 defeat back in 2013. That fateful day that saw the end of the Andre Villas Boas regime. It was a real sucker blow. While Luis Suarez and Raheem Sterling were at their best, Spurs were at their worst, making for a miserable, cold evening at White Hart Lane.
What is the current feeling like among Spurs fans?
One of positivity, for sure. With our highest ever Premier League finish last season, and a return to the Champions League, things are looking up under Mauricio Pochettino. Although fans are desperate for that marquee signing this summer, the squad has never been stronger and we’re looking to go on another well-fought run this campaign.
How are you finding life under Pochettino?
Fantastic! I can comfortably say that our future is looking bright, with a coach that has created a real bond among the players. His philosophy of bringing through youthful talent will enable us to grow stronger in the coming years.
As much as life under Harry Redknapp was fun, our time with Pochettino has been one of solidity.
What is your opinion of our manager, Jürgen Klopp?
To be honest, when you signed him I was worried. Since the days of Rafa Benitez, you guys haven’t really had a manger to match the ambitions of the club. Now you do. If you sign the right players in the coming years, you’ll be a real force under him.
And what do you make of the current Liverpool side?
If I’m honest, it’s not a squad that really sends shivers down my spine, but, you do have some sensational talent in your setup. Philippe Coutinho and Adam Lallana really impress me, with the latter someone I’d very much like at Spurs.
Who do you think is Liverpool’s biggest threat?
You can score goals in almost all positions. Your midfield is littered with goal-scorers which is rare in the Premier League, when looking at clubs other than Manchester City. The game at Anfield last year showed just how threatening you can be across the middle of the park.
What do you think of the business done by both clubs, so far?
I think Sadio Mané is an incredible signing, for you guys. Having not seen much yet of the others, I’m intrigued to see how they get on. In terms of our business, we’ve cleared out a lot of the deadwood, which was crucial. Victor Wanyama and Victor Janssen have been strong additions to the squad, allowing us to be far more competitive across all competitions. I still would like a big name to come in, though.
Where do you expect both teams to finish this season?
I think both clubs, as well as Arsenal, will battle for fourth. Manchester City look threatening, while Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United have practically bought their place in the title race. Chelsea look pretty impressive — N’Golo Kante and Antonio Conte are huge signings for the club. That leaves those three clubs to battle for fourth spot. Arsenal don’t look their best yet, but you can count on them being up there.
Finally, can you give us a score prediction for Saturday’s game?
The worst question of them all! To be honest, your result against Burnley came as a huge surprise, and made this all the more difficult. Had you beaten them, in the same manner you did Arsenal, I’d back you for a narrow win, with Spurs not looking their sharpest yet. But I think a 1-1 draw is on the cards.
Vorm, Eriksen, and Davies were all players wanted by Rodgers. There were also numerous reports linking Vertonghen when he was unhappy with the club. In many ways, we’ve been fishing in the same pond, trying to figure a back route to the top around the mega clubs. Now, we’ve even got very similar managers with a similar approach to pressing football. Should be a cracking match.
Spurs 1: Liverpool 3
Liverpool’s midfield is littered with goalscorers? What’s he been watching?