Tottenham won’t win the title this year – but there’s no reason why they can’t set themselves up for a real go in the seasons ahead.

Perhaps if they didn’t squander so many points in games they shouldn’t, a tilt at the title would be possible ahead of schedule because all of the big three have their problems.

Chelsea’s recent form has been an accident waiting to happen and their ageing squad is showing signs of stagnation.

 

Arsenal’s frailties are exposed once too often and they could lose their best player at the end of the season while Manchester United – despite being joint top – have the weakest squad they’ve had in years and have no money to spend.

In contrast Harry Redknapp’s side continues to progress and pass more milestones – their superb comeback against the Gunners was an important step forward.

The quality and depth of their squad is on a par with most, if not all in the Premier League.

But the club still lack that special know-how of Chelsea, United and Arsenal.

They know the demands of domestic and Champions League football having dealt with it for over ten years. They know how to get through rough patches. They know how to sustain title threats and get results despite average performances.

And they also know how to reinvent themselves. Spurs are closing the gap – but the big three have the clout to widen it just like that.

It’s all ifs and buts – but imagine if the big three were stay exactly how they are now for the next few years. That would leave the title there for the taking.

However, Spurs can’t worry about the situation at other clubs but they can control what goes on at White Hart Lane. First of all they must keep hold of their best players and qualify for the Champions League again. Then who knows what’s possible.