The biggest single problem is with the strikers. It was also an issue last season but rather covered up by the exceptional form of Bale. Tottenham now look exposed, particularly in the system that Villas-Boas favours with only one main striker. Jermain Defoe has shown an admirable willingness to adapt but, rather like Michael Owen, has always looked more comfortable throughout his career when playing with a second striker. It would have seemed obvious, then, to recruit a striker who was adept at playing alone up front. That means not only being a good finisher – which Soldado and Defoe undoubtedly are – but also being able to play with their back to goal and being able to drop deep and link up effectively with the midfield. Soldado, though, looks similar style and stature to Defoe. Emmanuel Adebayor has the physical and technical attributes to help but getting the best from him has proved beyond Villas-Boas thus far.