Tottenham begin a Premier League campaign without a new face among their ranks for the first time in recent memory.
Mauricio Pochettino has stressed the difficulty, and price, of finding players capable of improving a team who scored the most goals, conceded the least and won the most points over the course of the combined past two seasons.
Such lack of movement and perceived low wages prompted Danny Rose to speak out against the club amid interest from Manchester United and Chelsea. The left-back has now been fined two weeks' wages.
The manager told fans on Wednesday to expected late signings - a Tottenham tradition - but, two days before their season opener the manager has a few questions to answer.
What should the fans be happy with this season?
A trophy. Spurs have not won a major prize since 2008, which is too long.
Given the money spent by rivals, a top-four finish will be tough but possible.
What is the club’s biggest strength?
Mauricio Pochettino.
The Argentine boss is a natural leader, has a core of players who trust him and a ferocious appetite for work. If anyone can keep Spurs moving forward, he can.
What is their biggest weakness?
Wembley. Tottenham did not suffer a single defeat at White Hart Lane last season but won only one of five games at Wembley.
It will not be easy to adapt.
How will the manager set them up?
Pochettino favours two systems — 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-2-1 — which he adjusts according to the players available and the opposition.
Spurs press from the front, defend high and push their full-backs forward.
Who can make the breakthrough?
Harry Winks. Expect the midfielder to start many more games and to break into the senior England squad.
Winks has maturity and calmness to match his clear talent.
Read More
MORE ABOUT