Tottenham should have copied Arsenal's international break tactic to boost injury crisis - Opinion

Arsenal appear to have made a strategic decision ahead of the international break which Tottenham Hotspur ought to consider copying.

We have reached that time of the year again, which every manager in club football absolutely despises – the international break.

Tottenham Hotspur have 13 players representing their countries, and most will be partaking in friendlies in preparation for the World Cup.

These matches are significantly less important than the upcoming Premier League fixtures. Therefore, it seems like too much of a coincidence that six Arsenal players have withdrawn from their national teams, as reported by BBC Sport.

Of course, the Gunners have not simply made up injuries. Suggesting that would be a crazy conspiracy.  However, we have seen plenty of clubs adopt an overprotective stance in the past, taking precautionary actions to keep as many of their players at home as possible.

Tottenham should attempt to hold players back too

Clearly, Arsenal recognise the importance of their remaining matches this season, as Mikel Arteta and his squad eye the Premier League title. Spurs also have an important task to fulfil, but at the opposite end of the league table. 

It is essential that Tottenham avoid relegation, and to do this, they will need as many players available as possible.

This is a club who have become notorious for having long injury lists, and the prospect of a two-week-long international break at this stage of the season is concerning.

As a result, Spurs should have also looked to hold some players back from their national teams, as representing them now is not worth the risks.

Tottenham essentially have seven cup finals remaining, and they cannot even win matches with the players currently available. Imagine how much worse things could get if some of those on international duty end up sidelined!

Spurs have to start winning in the Premier League

Sunday’s result saw Nottingham Forest leapfrog Tottenham in the Premier League, and West Ham have been fighting hard to stay up.

It seems inevitable that the Hammers will pick up at least a victory or two before the end of the season, meaning Spurs must also be winning matches.

To be without a win in domestic competitions since December is embarrassing, and every Tottenham player needs to recognise the importance of righting this wrong.

This should start with them asking whether playing a friendly for their national team is really worth it, when there is so much at stake for the Lilywhites.

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