Tottenham kicked off the Ange Postecoglou era with a pre-season defeat to West Ham, but there were plenty of positives for the new Spurs boss to take.
His side looked sharp going forward and they created several great chances, finishing the match with 30 shots on goal.
On another day, Tottenham could have easily been 3-2 winners instead of losers and, for a first showing under Postecoglou, this was promising.
Here Simon Collings takes a look at three takeaways from the match in Perth…
Udogie seizes his chance to shine
The difference between Sergio Reguilon and Destiny Udogie’s performances at left-back here in Perth was stark.
Reguilon started the game but he struggled during his 45-minute showing, with Danny Ings stealing in front of him to score the opening goal. The Spaniard has struggled defensively during his time at Spurs and the left-back spot feels up for grabs.
Udogie certainly took his opportunity when coming on at half-time. The 20-year-old, who was making his first appearance for Tottenham after spending last season back on loan at Udinese after joining for £20million, got on the scoresheet.
He looked very bright throughout the game, tucking into midfield and causing problems in attack. Postecoglou has food for thought.
A first goal in Spurs colours for Destiny 🙌
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 18, 2023
Richarlison’s woes continue
Richarlison had an exceptionally difficult first season at Tottenham after joining them last summer from Everton for £60m. The Brazilian managed just one Premier League goal all season during a miserable campaign.
His woes continued here in Perth as he had a tough night during this 3-2 defeat to the Hammers.
Richarlison hit the post, but he wasted good chances too - including one glorious header late on to level the game.
It’s early days in pre-season, and there will be some rust to shake off, but the striker must hope that the tide starts to turn soon.
Forgotten man Lo Celso catches the eye
Before kick-off, it was thought that James Maddison would be the midfield No8 who would grab the headlines.
As it turned out, Giovani Lo Celso stole the new £40m man’s thunder with an excellent performance in the second-half.
The midfielder has spent the past 18 months on loan at Villarreal, but he showed flashes of what he can do in a Tottenham shirt during this game against West Ham. The 27-year-old scored a goal and he created a great chance for Richarlison during a bright 45 minutes.
Lo Celso should suit Postecoglou’s style of football given his desire to get on the ball and create. Could his Spurs career have received an unexpected lifeline?
