Yeah, all valid points Steff.
I do wish I shared your optimism when it comes to Spurs, I suppose my realism is a defence mechanism as I've been left gutted so many times over the years after we've come close to winning trophies but fell short at the last hurdle or the 2nd to last hurdle when it comes to FA cup semi finals.
I've posted this in another thread, it appears to me that we miss that final 5 or 10% that it takes to elevate you from challenging to actually winning titles and big trophies. I don't know that final piece actually is but we just don't have it in my opinion. I look at the starting eleven's of the other teams in the top 6 and I genuinely believe we are a match for any of them, Chelsea included so it's not a personnel issue. Poch is relatively inexperienced so maybe it's that. We seem to struggle whenever we've had the chance to win to go top of the league, twice last season and twice this season IIRC. Not a massive sample size but it counts for something.
If I was a neutral, I'd be 70-80% confident that we are knocking on the door of winning the title and becoming a dominant force but I've supported us all my life and have kind of got used to disappointment. The closest comparison I can think of is that for years I wanted Andy Murray to win Wimbledon and I never thought he would after he lost to Federer in 2012. Even though the majority of pundits and ex players said it was only a matter of time, I never thought he would do it. It feels similar to that I guess.
Indeed my friend I understand...but here's the logic behind my optimism.
1) Since Poch arrived we have improved each season.
2) We are on the verge of guaranteeing CL football again next season, first time back-to-back ever.
3) Our injuries this season have been worse than anybody in top 4 or 5 bar Liverpool. Some have had two out to deal with, we have played almost the entire season without fielding our first 11. I believe our first-choice defense has played less than 7 matches together, and given the importance of Rose/Walker, that is significant. We missed Kane for what, 8 games total? Lamela since October. Vertonghen for a big stretch. And then Winks got crocked right as he was a very, very viable member of our match day squad. Chelski have had amazing luck with injuries (probably due to more rest/deeper bench). Alonso was out at Man U and they were brick.
4) Our midfield has spring to life in a scoring sense. Goals now come from everywhere. Oh, and that three season wonder isn't too shabby!!!!
5) Honestly, the dive from Moses on Saturday was one thing; that goes for and against you. But Atkinson's failure to referee the game by the rules, and largely overlook Chelsea's egregious fouling and dark-arts tactics was a disgrace. If there is ANY criticism, it is we need to get cuter ourselves. We're getting there.
6) We are the best team in the country. It is a matter of time. Next season will be his third proper season with all the deadwood gone in charge (first season was university!)...I expect some Prem-proven talent (Zaha, Keane) to come in, and a ship-out of two (Sissoko and Georges)...maybe one other massive surprise, who knows?
Now for the illogical 7th point.
7) How ultimately Spurs would it be to now win the title? Easiest path to trophy denied. Chavs supposedly carrying all the momentum. Maybe a bit arrogant. A bit roostery. Perhaps it bites them. Perhaps we end up winning it on goal difference, you know, Aguero-style at Hull? Why not? why not dream? Because I think TBH, if this season ends up being deemed a 'failure' than WE are the tossers!!!
Good chat mate...
