In a close league cup second leg, a second half penalty taken by Andros Townsend allowed Tottenham Hotspur to narrowly defeat Sheffield United 1-0 at White Hart Lane tonight, securing an advantage for the away game next Wednesday.

A major talking amongst the fanbase was the inclusion of Emmanuel Adebayor within the line-up as team captain. Due to a spell of bad form being followed by compassionate leave, the highly paid Spurs striker has not been incredibly popular amongst the fanbase, meeting a mixed reception from the crowd in tonight’s game. Whilst maybe controversial to club fans, it can certainly be argued that the striker put in a more threatening shift than recent fan favourite Harry Kane in tonight’s match. Adebayor’s high pressing play tonight should answers any criticism of laziness which is often directed his way, he frequently made aggressive sprints across the pitch and dispossessed Sheffield United players a number of times. He was unlucky to not capitalise on a late first half chance, but this was largely down to strong defending from the Sheffield United centre-backs as opposed to poor finishing.

Whilst maybe controversial to club fans, it can certainly be argued that the striker put in a more threatening shift than recent fan favourite Harry Kane in tonight’s match.

Elsewhere on the pitch, Andros Townsend once again looked very promising on the right wing. Creating many opportunities for the team and generally providing an aggressive outlet which was otherwise lacking on the pitch. His penalty was reminiscent of the one taken at Chelsea, bravely taken and absolutely crucial in timing.

Eriksen had some excellent moments tonight, but displayed once more a major weakness in creating meaningful chances from set pieces. He was played alongside Harry Kane in midfield, whose unusual positions left Ben Davies struggling heavily at protecting the left hand side of the pitch, giving Sheffield United a number of chances which they didn’t capitalise on.

Tottenham Hotspur should be greatly pleased with this victory, given the Sheffield side’s immense cup record, having only lost two prior matches out of 18. Mauricio Pochettino understands well that complacency is not the right attitude in games such as these, and so will look to play a strong Tottenham side away from home to secure the final at Wembley.

Man of the Match: Andros Townsend

Runner Up: Benjamin Stambouli