This is the case for the defence of Ange Postecoglou although given Tottenham Hotspur have conceded 16 goals in their last six Premier League matches – including three against an Everton side who had only scored 15 times in their previous 20 league games – that may not be the wisest choice of words right now.

Despite the never-ending slew of injuries and promising campaigns in the cup competitions that could yet bear trophy fruit, such a dismal league run has seen serious pressure mount on manager Postecoglou, who accepted blame for Sunday’s dire first half on Merseyside after a formation switch that backfired badly.