Brownie shows the way

One performance that stood out for Spurs in the victory against Manchester City was that of Michael Brown in only his second start of the season.

With the abundance of quality central midfielders at the club Brown, along with Pedro Mendes and Sean Davis, has found first team opportunities hard to come by this season. But instead of sulking or demanding a transfer, Brownie has shown the kind of attitude that Martin Jol has demanded from all members of the squad and waited patiently for his chance.

He was rewarded for his patience with a starting place last night in the absence of Edgar Davids and Teemu Tainio and provided the necessary work rate and determination to give Spurs the edge in midfield. With Michael Carrick playing almost as a sweeper in front of the back four, Brown and Jenas were given responsibilty for competing in central midfield whilst Lee and Lennon and on occasions Keane gave Spurs the width necessary to hurt City.

The system worked well as Spurs ran out comfortable winners and Brown was unlucky not to find the net in the second half when he cut in from the left and unleashed a shot from outside the box that went just wide.

Brown's performance along with the other replacements Araon Lennon who turned his marker, ex Spur Ben Thatcher, inside out all evening and Anthony Gardner, stepping in for skipper Ledley King and sticking like glue to Andy Cole all night,
shows the strength in depth at Spurs that has turned us from mid table also rans into serious Champions League contenders.

It wasn't that long ago that having injuries to three key first teamers away against a team with top six aspirations would have had Spurs managers preparing their excuses in advance but todays Spurs are different. Last night clearly showed the advances we have made against a team that finshed above us in the league last season.

The performance of these players should come as an inspiration to other squad players who have had limited opportunities this season but are still seen by Jol as very much part of our future plans.

Tim Row