Spineless Spurs Fall to Villa

The resumption of the Premier League for Tottenham had fans wishing that it never returned after a terrible Sunday afternoon that ended in defeat in North London.

Side to Side

That's what it seemed like all afternoon for Spurs, as a performance without much spark meant Aston Villa could continue their improving form this season. The hosts line up wasn't unsurprising, with Bentancur and Palhinha remaining as Frank's favourites in midfield over the likes of Sarr and Bergvall.

It was unfortunate to see Romero injured during the warmup, where we can only hope that he is being taken good care of before midweek Champions League action. Spurs started the game strongly and Bentancur's opener within 5 minutes came from an excellent switch by Kudus. However, from that point there was never real conviction in the side and the longer it took them to capitalise on a slow Villa start, the easier it would be for the visitors to grow back into the game.

Tel and Odobert's inclusion wasn't a surprise, but it turned out to be a frustrating watch- its clear the two of them have energy and talent, but the glimpses aren't enough for a side that should have players fighting for their positions. Meanwhile, Xavi once again was under-utilised as Palhinha and Bentancur were not passing into the constant spaces that the Dutchman was finding. It seemed that the only tactic for attack was passing to Kudus and hoping he could play it across the box for the ball to be turned in.

Very frustrating performance today.

Think it is clear for all that the Bentancur - Palhinha pivot does not work in possession pic.twitter.com/EPGe1MD6qy

— TheSpursStatMan (@SpursPLStatsMan) October 19, 2025

Rogers' equaliser was a blockbuster finish worthy of winning a game, but it was frustrating as Villa hadn't been playing well. It seemed like only a matter of time until Villa found the lead, not particularly because Spurs were not showing enough offensively. As the game grew, Martinez made some excellent saves, but Kudus remained as the only source of all attacks. Once Buendia gave the visitors the lead with another excellent finish, it would be a true test of character to see if Spurs had the fight, but ultimately they just didn't show it. A frustrating afternoon and one that proves we are far from the potential we could reach.

If Kudus does not play like Messi & Danso’s long throws don’t work then we don’t score.

What is the plan?

— The Spurs Watch (@TheSpursWatch) October 19, 2025

Its not an easy run on the horizon for Spurs, with heavy scheduling resuming and a dreaded Chelsea fixture not too far away. Its been an interesting start to the season where I still feel like Spurs haven't fully been tested by the leagues elite clubs. These coming few weeks will really open our eyes to what Frank can be capable of. In my opinion I would like to see Sarr back playing regularly. His excellent start to the season was no fluke and I find it difficult to understand what has swayed Frank's mind against starting him.

After the game Frank stated, "It was exactly the game I expected it to be, against two good teams, very tight. There weren't too many chances. I think overall it could've gone either way. I think 1-1 would've been a fair result.''

A trip to Monaco awaits, with a familiar face to reunite with, I just hope Frank has a plan for this upcoming period.

COYS!