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Andre Villas-Boas arrives at Stamford Bridge with his new side Tottenham needing a result, and it’s going to be difficult to achieve that. But, given that he’s still a young guy, will he be emotional returning to his former home?
His tenure at Chelsea was never smooth. Constantly surrounded by speculation of player revolt, AVB lost his job midway through the 11-12 season and took over at the Spurs the following summer.
There’s bound to be an element of catharsis for the Portuguese manager, who can’t be happy with how his leadership came to a dramatic end in West London. But he and the Spurs need points, so they’re going there to do a job.
It will be difficult for Tottenham. Chelsea’s attack is, at least on the creative side, superior. Juan Mata has been one of the top five players in the league this season in my view, and poses a great threat in advanced areas. He’s one of the few players capable of creating something from nothing as he interchanges and finds space in the final third, between opposing defenders.
There’s also Eden Hazard, who was a revelation earlier on in the season. His influence has fallen slightly since Christmas, but, if he’s fit, he’s going to be a threat.
Tottenham’s key to victory is to minimize Chelsea’s attacking threat, breaking up play in the middle and retaining possession of the ball. There will be spells where Tottenham come under immense pressure, which they will probably succumb to. I highly doubt the Spurs will be able to keep a clean sheet.
Tottenham do pose threats themselves. Gareth Bale, Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe are all dangerous players, and use their space to get in behind defensive lines. The team must take their chances when they come.
A defeat would be devastating for AVB and company, and would leave them requiring a minor miracle in other results in order to secure Champions League football. Villas-Boas must conduct his troops through this massive game professionally, and cannot afford to leave without any points.
