Premier League 2019/20: 3 reasons why Tottenham Hotspur beat West Ham

3. Dele Alli looked much improved

Dele Alli produced a much better performance under Mourinho

Coming into the game, much had been made about the potential effect that Jose Mourinho’s appointment could have on Dele Alli. The England international has been struggling as of late to find his best form, and reports this week suggested that Mourinho, jokingly of course, had asked the attacker if he was the “real” Dele or simply an impersonator.

Well, after today’s showing – particularly in the first half – it should be clear to the Portuguese boss that he has the real deal available to him. Alli was deployed in almost his favoured role – playing behind Harry Kane as a slightly withdrawn forward – and it worked a charm, as he produced his best performance in a long time, assisting for Heung-Min Son’s goal with a wonderfully weighted pass and then using some ridiculous skill on the floor to free Son minutes later, allowing the Korean to cross for Lucas Moura’s goal.

Alli did quieten down in the second half, particularly as West Ham began to fight back, but overall Mourinho will be pleased with this showing. If Christian Eriksen is indeed heading for the exit at Spurs, perhaps the best way forward for them is to use today’s system, with Son and Lucas as wingers with Alli playing just off Kane. After all, it was that combination that took Tottenham to their best Premier League finishes a couple of seasons ago.