Tottenham’s emphatic 4-0 win over Everton was not only a statement victory but also a showcase of Wilson Odobert’s potential and why he should start over Brennan Johnson. Odobert, who was secured from Burnley, has quickly caught the eye of both fans and pundits alike. Ange Postecoglou didn’t hesitate to hand him his debut and his first start, a decision that paid off handsomely. Let’s dive into six key stats from the game that underline why Odobert deserves to be in the starting XI.
1. Take-Ons Attempted: 6 vs. 1
Odobert’s attacking mentality was evident as he attempted six take-ons compared to Johnson’s solitary effort. This stat is a testament to Odobert’s confidence and his desire to run at defenders, something that Tottenham fans have been craving in their wingers.
2. Take-Ons Completed: 2 vs. 0
While attempting take-ons is one thing, completing them is another, and Odobert managed to complete two, while Johnson did not complete any. This indicates Odobert’s effectiveness in breaking down Everton’s defense, providing Spurs with a dynamic option on the flanks that has been missing since the days of Aaron Lennon & Gareth Bale.
3. Final Third Passes Completed: 18 vs. 7
Odobert was significantly more influential in the attacking third, completing 18 passes to Johnson’s 7. This stat highlights his involvement in Spurs’ offensive play, ensuring that the team maintained pressure on Everton’s defense. His ability to link up with the likes of Son Heung-min and James Maddison further underscores his value to the team.
4. Touches in the Opponent’s Box: 7 vs. 6
5. Overall Touches: 58 vs. 29
Odobert’s involvement in the game was much greater than Johnson’s, with 58 touches compared to 29. This stat not only highlights Odobert’s work rate but also his ability to stay involved in the play, making him a constant threat to the opposition.
6. Chances Created: 1 vs. 0
Finally, Odobert’s ability to create a chance, while Johnson did not, is perhaps the most telling statistic. In a game where creating opportunities is key, Odobert’s ability to carve out chances could be the difference in tight matches, making him a valuable asset in Tottenham’s attack.
The Bigger Picture
Odobert’s debut was more than just a promising performance; it was a statement. Postecoglou’s decision to start the French winger was bold, considering Odobert had only been with the club for eight days. However, it proved to be a masterstroke as Odobert’s performance was pivotal in Tottenham’s dominance. His ability to push high and wide kept Everton on the back foot, allowing Spurs to control the game with a 70.5% possession share.
Odobert’s presence on the field was reminiscent of Aaron Lennon’s prime days at Spurs, where his ability to glide past defenders and create havoc in the final third was unmatched. While Odobert is still developing, his potential to fill this long-vacant role in the squad is clear. His willingness to take on defenders and his ability to provide unpredictability in the attack are qualities that Spurs have sorely missed.
As Tottenham prepare for tougher challenges ahead, including a trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle, Odobert’s performance against Everton has surely given Postecoglou food for thought. With his direct running, dribbling ability, and eye for goal, Odobert offers a different dimension to Tottenham’s attack, something that could be crucial as they push for a top-four finish and a successful European campaign.
In conclusion, while Brennan Johnson has his strengths, Wilson Odobert’s performance against Everton shows that he brings a more dynamic and effective option to the team. His impact in his debut game suggests that he could be the key to unlocking Tottenham’s full potential this season. For Postecoglou, the decision should be clear: Odobert deserves to start.
