Has Huddersfield Town’s Initial Magic Worn Off Due To A Lack Of Attacking Power?
Huddersfield Town made an unexpectedly promising start to their season in the Premier League this time. Prior to the start of the season, they were one of the favourites to get relegated but they have truly shown that they can perform well and are not just a one-hit wonder. They won their first two games and have had a lukewarm run ever since but of late, it seems like the initial magic created by David Wagner and his men has worn off.
They are currently at 10th place in the league – which is not bad – but considering how solid they were at the beginning, it does seem like they are enduring a significant dip in form. They have lost their last 3 Premier League matches and also failed to score a single goal. In fact, they lost against Bournemouth last weekend even though Eddie Howe’s men were reduced to 10 players. Their next game is with Manchester City, and if the results so far are anything to go by, there are very little chances of them causing an upset against Pep Guardiola’s high-flying team.
It certainly does not get any easier since they face Arsenal, followed by Everton. By the time the crucial period of Christmas rolls by, Huddersfield could once again be teetering dangerously close to the relegation zone.
Arguably, it might be unfair to focus on their shortcomings instead of appreciating them for what they have done so far. However, they showed so much potential and they seem to have what it takes to harbour greater aspirations. So it does seem disappointing that they are losing ground in the competition.
A lack of goal-scoring power up front seems to be the biggest problem for the club at the moment. Regardless of how much passion or desire a team has, it is very tough to bridge the gap between the Championship and the Premier League when one cannot afford to spend as much as their rivals. Aaron Mooy made his loan move permanent and he has been stellar for the club but besides him, very few others have made a mark up front.
Tom Ince hasn’t actually scored yet while Steve Mounie’s injury has restricted him to the bench for now. What makes the situation all the more worrying is the fact that no Huddersfield player has scored more than 2 goals so far.
That said, it is very likely that things may not go all downhill for them from here but there is no guarantee that they will survive this tough period despite the shortcomings in their attacking personnel. Regardless of which way their fortunes sway, the upcoming few months will be very crucial for Wagner’s squad.