FIVE KEY MOMENTS

chances to score.” As for Watford, the word character cropped up again.

“That is because we give 100 per cent all the time,” said Silva. “In training and in the match. I know my players and I know they Harry Kane just fails to connect with a Kieran Trippier cross. But he does connect with the post. Could have been nasty. will give that.” Watford had the perfect start when after 13 minutes, the lively Richarlison forced a corner, Tom Cleverley swung the ball in and Christian Kabasele (inset, above) wasleft unmarked to head home. Watford thought they had a decent shout for a penalty rejected on 25 minutes. The ball broke to Christian Eriksen and Son Heung-min was unmarked six yards from goal to stroke home the equaliser. As the challenges flew in, the frenzy increased. That culminated in the red card for Sanchez – and left Pochettino grateful for the versatility of Eric Dier.

Dier had excelled in midfield. With the departure of Sanchez, he went back alongside Jan Vertonghen and Spurs lost none of their solid look.

But Watford sapped the Spurs energy level with their man advantage and Pochettino turned to his bench for reinforcements. Off went Eriksen after 64 minutes and Dele Alli with four minutes left.

So fragile is the Alli ego that he looked less than impressed with the decision. But Pochettino said: “Players with character are always disappointed.”

In other words, Alli will be reminded that there is no “i” in the word team when the players meet for their debrief.

1) 2) The opening goal. The mega-talented Richarlison forces a corner and Christian Kabasele is unmarked to head home. 3) The equaliser and again a lack of defensive awareness as Son Heung-min is left alone to guide home a cross from Christian Eriksen....