Whether or not Jol handed around photocopies of this sites preview of this afternoons game in the dressing room before kick off is unlikely but the players performed as if they had followed his every word. Granted Billy Davies' Derby gave Jol's men the freedom of N17 but Jol, and an army of Spurs fans, will care little, with a win and three points being essential preparation for a tough schedule to come.
There were many improved performances today. Malbranque added an end product, as well as two excellently taken goals, to his normal frantic energy levels; Huddlestone, replacing Zokora, controlled the midfield against his former side and Lee Young Pyo proved why he is an underrated asset on the left side of defence. Most prominent, perhaps, was the performance of Jermaine Jenas, who showed just what he can do when he puts his mind to it. His tackles were sharp and biting and his runs were driving and incisive. His goal showcased all of this as he dispossessed a Derby midfielder simply by wanting the ball more, brought the ball forward unchallenged before slipping the ball under the 'keeper and into the corner of the net. It was just reward for an impressive performance. Whether he can do that against Man United and Arsenal, however, remains to be seen.
Further encouragement for the Tottenham faitful came from an enterprising and exciting cameo performance from winger Adel Taarabt, who showcased his galaxy of skills, tormenting the long since beaten Derby players. He needs to learn when to pick a pass and when to beat his man but on this evidence, Taarabt has the potential to make a genuine impact this season.
Though Derby were naive and allowed us far too much time and space, the result was all important today. Routledge, though evidently not in the class of Lennon, provided the width we've been lacking so far this season and should be allowed to retain his place against United. Huddlestone offered a calm hubb in the middle of the pitch but questions remain about his mobility. Overall, however, the prolific margin of victory as well as the clean sheet will allow Jol, and many Spurs fans, to sleep a little more easily tonight.
Man of the Match - Jermaine Jenas Much criticised recently, the midfielder, dropped by England, deserves praise for an impressive performance that showcased the good side of his game. Like the rest of the squad, hopefully he can use it as a building block to kick start the season.