Free-scoring Spurs advised to plan ahead

Tom Collomosse
28 Sep 2009

After their fourth five-goal haul of the season, Tottenham have proved that they possess the attacking power to test any team.

But it is how they perform away from home against meaner opponents than Burnley which will define their season.

Almost one year ago, Spurs looked like being in serious danger of relegation having collected only two points from their first eight League matches under Juande Ramos.

Harry Redknapp's sound coaching and impressive transfer dealings have quickly restored the club to the top six, but Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle believes Spurs may need to find a Plan B if they are to make the final push into the top four.

"Spurs' way of playing seems very much to be 'You score three, we'll score four," said Carlisle, after a tough afternoon against Robbie Keane - who scored four goals in a game for the first time in his career - with the other coming from Jermaine Jenas in the 5-0 win for Spurs.

"We could have had a few goals ourselves on Saturday, and it will be interesting to see whether Spurs play the same way away from home this season, as it is a very attacking style.

"They have a flowing, attacking manner, clever strikers, and good providers from midfielders, so they will always be a threat at home.

"But it is very important in this league that you get results away from home - as we are finding to our detriment."

Spurs have already won away twice in the League this season, at Hull and West Ham.

Redknapp's players are undoubtedly superior to most of Bolton's, but Spurs will need to add steel to their style if they are to extend their fine start to the season at The Reebok Stadium on Saturday.