Trouble in paradise as Antonio Conte urges his team to improve after losing 2-0 against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
After an electric start that has seen Spurs sit third on the table level on points with second-placed Manchester City and three ahead of Chelsea in fourth, albeit having played a game more than both.
In an illustration of defensive prowess and attacking intent, Manchester United took their unbeaten run to a five games, perhaps a victory for the Red Devils should have never been in doubt.
Before the game, Tottenham had only lost once in their 16 Premier League games, but Manchester United have a great recent record against Spurs.
After being held to a goalless draw by Newcastle United on the weekend, Manchester United went into the game in search of a victory and it was evident from the inception after delivering a lively and committed performance.
The first half ended all-square but United should have taken the lead if it wasn’t for World Cup winning keeper Hugo Lloris who did just about enough to keep the home side at bay.
United went into the second half guns blazing after a frustrating first half and they would soon get their reward from Fred who put the home side in front, after receiving a short pass from Jadon Sancho on the edge of the area before firing a deflected shot past Lloris.
United doubled their advantage with less than 30 minutes left to play and close any room for a potential Spurs come back after a rapid counter-attack.
Fred had his shot blocked by Dier just inside the box, and the ball dropped invitingly into the path of Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker maintained his composure and curled his effort into the right side of the net from 20 yards.
Manchester United showed signs of a team that’s capable of being an integral part of the title narrative, while it remains to be seen how the table will look come the end of the season, Manchester United should be impressed with what they have seen so far in what has been a good first season for Eric Ten Hag’s men.
United now sits 5th on the Premier League table with 19 points, three steps below leaders Arsenal with an 8 points margin after round 10.
