Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has offered insight into the tactical approach new Tottenham Hotspur head coach Igor Tudor is likely to implement in North London.
Tudor was appointed last week following the departure of Thomas Frank, who left the club after eight months in charge.
The Croatian manager has signed a short-term deal running until the end of the season and is preparing for his first match in charge against Arsenal.
Troost-Ekong previously worked under Tudor at Udinese and described a coach who demands intensity and tactical discipline.
Attacking shape and high press
“We had him twice at Udinese,” Troost-Ekong told TalkSport. “He is a manager who likes to play a 3-5-2 or similar variations.
He favours attacking football, a high defensive line, and a high press. He can be quite direct.”
The defender explained that Tudor’s preference for three central defenders could mean structural adjustments at Spurs.
Wing-backs are expected to play advanced roles, while the defensive line pushes higher up the pitch.
Troost-Ekong noted that the system encourages aggressive forward movement but carries inherent risks.
Personality and immediate impact
“He has a big personality, if they need someone to shake things up and get everyone going, he’s the right person,” he said. “He isn’t intimidated by anything and will try to run through every brick wall. That was my experience with him.”
Troost-Ekong added: “Switching to a 3-5-2 would be the first step. You’ll see high pressing and exciting football, the kind that gets fans out of their seats.
There will be goals, but some will be conceded too, because playing a high line involves high risk.”
Tudor most recently managed Juventus before leaving the Italian club last October.
Tottenham’s upcoming fixtures will provide an early test of whether his proactive style can deliver results in the Premier League.
