Gary Neville has criticised Serge Aurier for a major mistake against Chelsea, insisting that Tottenham Hotspur boss Jose Mourinho will be “furious” with him, per Sky Sports via HITC.
What’s he said?
The Ivory Coast international was at fault for the concession of Chelsea’s first goal, heading the ball out of play under little pressure to give the Blues a corner. Then, as it was taken, Aurier appeared to switch off and did not get close enough to Willian, who shimmied past him and sent a superb curling effort into the bottom corner.
The right-back has actually been a major part of Jose Mourinho’s team since his appointment as manager, turning in a series of assured displays and providing an assist against West Ham United.
However, Neville believes that Aurier’s disappointing lapse in concentration will have infuriated the former Manchester United boss.
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He said: “He lacks concentration. He’s turning around looking over his right shoulder, not even watching the play.
“He then sets off late and doesn’t sprint. Willian skips inside him and it’s a brilliant finish, but it was poor and Jose Mourinho will be furious.”
Not reliable
Aurier always has a mistake in him.
Under Mauricio Pochettino, he conceded a vital penalty against Liverpool and was also sent off versus Southampton.
Here, he reverted to that form.
Aurier was guilty of switching off, of a lapse in concentration that proved absolutely vital.
Chelsea’s first goal was indicative of the rest of Spurs’ display and set a poor tone.
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There were a number of sloppy mistakes – Paulo Gazzaniga conceding a penalty with a wild piece of goalkeeping and Son Heung-Min being sent off for a petty kick towards Antonio Rudiger – and Aurier’s was merely the first.
But it cannot be allowed to continue. As the season continues – Spurs face Brighton and Norwich City within two days – dropping Aurier would not be the worst idea.
Meanwhile, Spurs fans have reacted to a major update on Toby Alderweireld.
