Sons Double will get most of the attention, but this game’s intriguing subplot revolves around Bissouma.

The Malian midfielder received a warning and a one-match ban for posting a video of himself inhaling laughing gas just over a week ago.

Possession of laughing gas (nitrous oxide) for recreational use will be a criminal offence in the UK from 2023 and is punishable by a prison sentence of two years.

Ange Postecoglou wanted Bissouma to fight for “reparation” after this faux pas, but admitted that “the door will close” if he continues to overstep his bounds.

Although Rodrigo Bentancur was injured, it was still a bit of a surprise to see Bissouma’s name on the team sheet so soon after the incident.

However, Postecoglou’s leniency was rewarded by a disciplined midfield performance from Bissouma, who scored his first goal for Tottenham in his 52nd Premier League game for the club.

Bissouma ran to the corner flag in celebration and pointed both index fingers to the sides of his temples. He then folded his hands and bowed.

The conclusion may be that there was a renewed focus and a request for forgiveness.

Postecoglou’s fatherly approach and skillful personnel management seem to have elicited the right response and put Bissouma on the right path.