Tottenham vs. Norwich City: Player Ratings from Spurs' Heartbreaking 2-1 Loss

When Norwich City was the weekday match, Spurs fans thought this was just what the doctor ordered.

How wrong everyone was.

It's fitting that a Tottenham team that has dropped in form the second half of this season would lose an easy one against the Canaries.

Two matches in two days against Norwich City and Sunderland and just one point to show for it? Shame on you, Spurs.

With this afternoon's 2-1 loss, Spurs are hanging on to a spot for next year's Champions League for dear life. They're tied at 59 points a piece with upstart Newcastle United and are in the lead by only goal differential.

Norwich City opened the scoring just 13 minutes into the match and even though Jermain Defoe tied it before the halftime whistle, the Canaries scored their second goal in the 66th minute and never looked back.

The team looked absolutely apathetic overall, but how did the individuals grade out? Was everyone as dismal as the scoreline would let on? Check out my player ratings and let me know if you agree.

Goalkeeper

Brad Friedel: 6.0

Looked worried all afternoon and suffered from a shaky set of centre-defenders. Wasn't entirely at fault for either goal—especially that screamer in the 66th minute by Elliott Bennett). But when faced with only four shots on goal, the veteran goalkeeper has to do better. Certainly not his worst performance of the season, but one the 40-year-old would like to have back.

Defenders

Benoit Assou-Ekotto: 6.0

Tried to keep up an energetic pace along the left sideline and was great on attack. Had a rocket of a shot stopped by John Ruddy. A real find for Tottenham and quite possibly a long-term fixture at the left-back position.

Ledley King: 4.5

One of the worst outings in recent memory for King. Looked nervous and anxious, caught out of position several times. Is this the end for the longtime veteran defender?

Younes Kaboul: 5.5

Forced off just before halftime as he came down awkwardly on a Canaries player. His presence in the second half might have salvaged the draw for Tottenham, as the veteran Frenchman stopped several Norwich City forwards in their tracks during the first 45 minutes.

Kyle Walker: 6.5

Played the best of anyone on Spurs' squad. Worked hard throughout the match to fortify the back line, but it seemed everyone on defense had an off-day. Couldn't carry the team on his back.

Ryan Nelsen: 6.0

Good job unexpectedly coming off the bench. Played well in his most extensive league appearance for Spurs. A real find as Tottenham desperately needs quality depth at centre-back now and in the future.

Midfielders

Luka Modric: 6.0

Seemed hesitant to go all-in on attacks and take shots from distance. Even stood over the ball at one point. Very confusing performance from the normally solid midfielder.

Jake Livermore: 6.5

Other than his feeding the ball to Jermain Defoe for Spurs' only goal, didn't do much. A lot of activity in the first few minutes, attempting to link up with Bale, but to no avail.

Aaron Lennon: 6.5

Didn't contribute much throughout the match, but showed he has the fitness to compete for a starting role in Redknapp's XI. Great stamina and pace throughout, especially the final third of the match. Will be a solid substitute for Bale if he bolts for Barcelona.

Gareth Bale: 7.0

A constant threat on the right flank and started the match with great pace, dispossessing Norwich City players left and right, and running directly at opposing midfielders. If only his curling effort hadn't hit the crossbar. A rare off day for the Welsh international.

Rafael van der Vaart: 6.5

Came on late in the match in hopes of providing a much-needed spark for Tottenham. Had a few good chances, but nothing materialized for the energetic Dutchman.

Forwards

Emmanuel Adebayor: 6.0

Looked unhappy and disinterested for the 45 minutes he was on the pitch. Partnered well with Assou-Ekotto, but that was it. Didn't use his body to his advantage in the Norwich City penalty area. Disappointing performance from the once hot Togolese international.

Jermain Defoe: 7.0

The only player on attack that had any kind of spark. What's with Spurs' inconsistency lately at attack?

Louis Saha: 5.5

Incredibly ineffective, second-worst player of the match (in front of only King at centre-back). Pulled at halftime in favor of Adebayor. What's gotten into him lately? So anonymous you'd have thought he was part of the Witness Protection Program.