Consistency The Key For Tottenham Thus Far

Tottenham Hotspur are just 7 points off of table leaders Manchester City with a game in hand about a third of a way through the Premier League schedule, and the notion of Spurs competing for the championship doesn't seem as far fetched as it typically does.

We all love to joke our Harry Redknapp's "just f*ckin run about a bit" tactics that have worked wonders in recent years (even our polarizing figures agree that Harry can inspire the players). But I do believe there is some truth to the link between his tactics and the success Spurs have enjoyed under his stewardship.

'Arry gives his players the freedom to express themselves and play to their strengths on the pitch rather than force a tactical masterpiece of a gameplan down their collective throat. What's been the key ingredient however, has been the consistency in the team.

With Harry's tactics, the relationships and the chemistry between the players on the field becomes more and more important. Swapping out players and throwing fresh faces into the mix can throw off that chemistry, and that is something that Tottenham have avoided so far this term.

Brad Friedel's backline of Kyle Walker, Younes Kaboul, Ledley King and Benoit Assou-Ekotto have been rocks at the back following the injury to Michael Dawson. In the midfield it's a similar situation with Luka Modric and Gareth Bale providing a consistent attacking presence with Scott Parker proving an invaluable summer signing. Only Aaron Lennon's place on the right flank has been filled with squad players at times (though he appears back in good form now following an injury).

At the front the partnership of Rafael van der Vaart and Emmanuel Adebayor has been in sparkling form all season long, and when the talismanic Dutch figure cannot go, Jermain Defoe has been more than capable of filling his shoes.

As many of the commentators around the footballing world have rightly speculated, the Tottenham starting XI has basically picked itself each weekend. There's been no reason for 'Arry to tinker with anything, really. Tottenham's superb form (buoyed by a lack of injuries) have meant that this team have been able to gel and improve as a unit.

The keys going forward will be to remain healthy and of course, main this super form that the club have been in over the opening 12 fixtures of the season. If they can do that, then no, there is not a reason why they can't be considered title contenders.