Tottenham Hotspur vs Wigan Athletic Match Preview
While Harry Redknapp observed that Spurs had not, in fact, signed the Yorkshire Ripper, and Spurs’ defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto let slip that it wasn’t actually Darth Vader either, Tottenham revealed the true identity of their latest signing as that of William Gallas, late of Arsenal, formerly of Chelsea, and thus, to certain Londoners, just as vile a character as either of the two previously-mentioned.
But with Ledley King’s availability on again-off again, and with news this week that long term convalescent Jonathan Woodgate is to undergo further surgery on his injured groin, a defensive partner for Michael Dawson would seem a necessity for Spurs. Gallas may be just what the doctor ordered.
In European action this week Spurs have now qualified for the Group Stage of the Champions League proper, following their 4-0 win over Swiss outfit Young Boys at White Hart Lane on Wednesday. Peter Crouch had a hat trick in the match while Jermain Defoe also put another notch in his gun, albeit in controversial fashion having handled the ball.
Spurs picked up three points last weekend against Stoke City, beating the Potters 1-2 at Britannia Stadium.
With the season just entering its third week it seems rather early to be talking about relegation, but it’s hard to avoid considering that possibility for Wigan, even at this stage, due to their hapless performances the previous two weeks.
Granted, a 6-0 loss to the mighty Chelsea can be understood,…but a 0-4 loss at home to newcomers Blackpool on the opening day sends a message powerfully laden with ineptitude.
Some relief came midweek with the Latics 0-3 win over League One Hartlepool in Carling Cup action.
Also this week the Latics signed Scotland international defender Steven Caldwell on a free transfer to help shore up their leaky defense. Steven joins brother Gary at the DW Stadium.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Wigan Athletic Match Report
Wigan shocked Tottenham at White Hart Lane and likely extended manager Roberto Martinez’s employment with the club when they beat Spurs 0-1 on Saturday.
Spurs’ ability to handle Champions League action alongside their EPL responsibilities must now be questioned, as the defeat to Wigan comes on the heels of Spurs’ 4-0 midweek win over Swiss outfit Young Boys.
Tottenham midfielder Luca Modric missed out on the match due to injury and manager Harry Redknapp admitted the Croatian international’s absence was telling. “You miss Modric in these games,” said Harry. “When the games are tight, he takes the ball for you.''
It was a different Wigan that showed up to play this week. Unlike their performances in their previous two matches, the Latics maintained a disciplined and organized effort against Spurs.
Hugo Rodallega scored the goal that gave Wigan the three points. Rodallega’s low, right foot shot to the far post wasn’t hit with tremendous power, but the aim was just enough to prevent Spurs keeper Carlo Cudicini from stopping it.
