Opinion: The Spurs half-term report card – Ranking every player from F to A-plus

With Spurs now having effectively reached the half-way point of the season (postponement of Aston Villa away aside), we’ve been royally entertained with sensational goals, thrilling games and magical pieces of skill (thank you Tanguy Ndombele). Therefore we are taking this opportunity to grade the players and manager on the season so far from F […]

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With Spurs now having effectively reached the half-way point of the season (postponement of Aston Villa away aside), we’ve been royally entertained with sensational goals, thrilling games and magical pieces of skill (thank you Tanguy Ndombele).

Therefore we are taking this opportunity to grade the players and manager on the season so far from F all the way up to A-plus.

Hugo Lloris – B

The captain has led by example and put together a solid run of performances this season. Arguably one of the best shot-stoppers and with an improved distribution this season, Lloris has been part of the Premier Leagues 3rd best defence and has contributed towards 6 clean Sheets this season (Premier League).

Joe Hart – C+

Despite the one shaky performance at LASK away this season, the summer signing has done exactly what was asked from him. He has deputised well for Lloris when called up and, with the lack of crowds this year, you can hear him marshalling the backline which will further justify the reason for Mourinho bringing him to the club for his leadership qualities both on and off the field.

Matt Doherty – C-

It is fair to say that Doherty hasn’t lived up to the standards that the fans expected when one of the most potent right-backs in recent premier league seasons was signed. Maybe due to the change of formation for him personally from a back 5, or perhaps as a result of his slump in form. Made a crucial assist at WBA this season which may prove invaluable come the end of the season.

Serge Aurier – A-

From a player who looked like a sure-fire sale in last summer’s transfer window, he has forced his way back to being one of the first names on the team sheet. Chipping in offensively, as usual, he really has improved defensively this season as well. The penalty at home to Leicester stopped him from getting an A.

Joe Rodon – B

Signed on the final day of the domestic window and too late for registration in the Europa League along with being cup-tied for the Carabao Cup, we have only seen a few appearances from the 6ft 4in Welshman. Some very encouraging displays so far and has only conceded one goal when on the pitch. We hope to see more from the former Swansea player in the second half of the season.

Davinson Sanchez – D

It really has been a poor start the season for the Columbian. Mistaken-ridden and totally short on confidence since the horror performance against West Ham, his days in a spurs shirt look numbered. Still only 24-years-old and a few years remaining on his contract, is now the time to cash in?

Toby Alderweireld – B

Now in his sixth season, the experienced Belgian has started to get back to the standards he showed in his first few years at the club. A calm presence at the back and formed, until recently, a solid partnership with Eric Dier.

Eric Dier – C

Even with frequent changes at the back this season, Dier has been the mainstay at the heart of the backline. However, his performances have been very mixed with some games being outstanding and not putting a foot wrong and others making consistent mistakes, beaten in the air far too easily.

Japhet Tanganga – C

Limited to a few cup and European performances this season. He looks a bit rusty but is still young enough to become a household name at Spurs. Maybe a loan away will benefit his development.

Ben Davies – C+

Mr Reliable (as I call him), as he always puts in a solid, if not spectacular, performance. That has continued this season. Has been a reliable back up to Reguilon and at left centre back.

Sergio Reguilon – A

What a signing! Exactly what Spurs have been missing in recent seasons with his swashbuckling runs down the left-hand side. Defensively sound and with superb assists galore. Please don’t take him back, Madrid!

Pierre Emile Hojbjerg – A+

Another fantastic recruit from the summer. The Viking has slotted into the CDM role like he’s been there for years. Interceptions, tackles and key passes have made him an integral part of the team and he provides the team with the perfect balance.

Moussa Sissoko – B

A mixed bag so far and certain games have highlighted his limitations this season. His defensive attributes can’t be questioned and against the ‘Big 6’ clubs his role in containing and countering have been invaluable. Personally, I think that Jose should leave him out the team against the so-called ‘lesser’ sides. Valuable squad player nonetheless.

Harry Winks – C-

Winks’ dedication and passion for Spurs is starting to cover up his performances. Tidy in possession but doesn’t seem to be at the standard that Spurs need to go to the next level. His loyalty for the club though should make him a good squad player to have around.

Gedson Fernandes – F

Can’t believe he’s still at the club and has not been recalled for his own sake. Limited to two performances this season. A recall and a new loan is best for him to restart his career.

Giovani Lo Celso – C-

Having had a fantastic end to last season, there were high expectations for Lo Celso this year. Injuries have caused him to be in and out of the side. A very well taken goal against Manchester City to seal the win.

Tanguy Ndombele – A+

What a turnaround this season! After being called out by Jose at Burnley last season, many thought there was no return for Ndombele. He makes football look effortless at times and is starting to contribute with more goals and assists this season. That goal at Sheffield United, simply audacious.

Dele Alli – D

Another player who needs to move on, either on loan or permanently, for the sake of his career. Seems to have lost all confidence and not fancied by the manager. He hasn’t influenced games in a way that we have come to be expected of him.

Erik Lamela – C

The marmite to Spurs fans. There is not one player who divides opinion more in the Spurs squad than Lamela. On his day, his tenacity and work rate have been second to none and he is a useful member of the squad. Still, injuries disrupt a run of games for him and he might be moved on in the summer.

Lucas Moura – C-

Having lost his starting position to Bergwijn this season, Moura has been limited to Cup and European starts, along with the odd league game. The night in Ajax will never be forgotten but he needs to up his game in order to become a regular starter for the rest of the season.

Steven Bergwijn – B

For me, he has performed really well this season. When he plays, the side has more balance and his work rate is very important. Once the goal and assist contributions increase, he will be worth the money Spurs paid for him last January.

Gareth Bale – D

We were all guilty of it. When Gareth Bale resigned on a season-long loan, we all couldn’t help but get excited about the prospect of seeing him in the famous Spurs shirt again. Unfortunately, he hasn’t lived up to the billing with only 3 goals this season and, unless there is a major turnaround in performance in the second half of the season, the loan is unlikely to be extended.

Heung Min Son – A+

Each year, his performances get better and better and the goals keep coming. He has been involved in nearly every squad this season and his performances don’t seem to drop. Formed the most potent partnership in the world this season and is on track to break his own personal records.

Carlos Vinicius – B+

Brought in to take the goalscoring burden off of Harry Kane and he’s done exactly that. Goal contributions in Europa and a very tidy hat-trick against Marine. Hopefully, we see more of the Brazilian.

Harry Kane – A++

There aren’t enough superlatives to describe this man. He is a Spurs legend and, like Son, he reaches a new level each season. Now getting the plaudits for his passing ability he is the most all-round centre forward in the world and it’s a pleasure to watch him week in week out.

The youngsters (Alfie Whiteman, Harvey White, Alfie Devine, Dane Scarlett, Jack Clarke)

Limited to a couple of substitute appearances but the future of the new crop of players coming through is very exciting to see. The loan deals for Clarke and White will help their development. The future is bright, the future is Lilywhite.

Jose Mourinho – A

Another one that divides opinion, but the man is a serial winner and is clearly having his impact on the Spurs squad. Within sight of the league leaders, the final of the League Cup and through in the FA Cup and Europa. If there is a person to be in charge of the club to end the trophy drought, it’s the one and only Jose Mourinho.

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