Tottenham Hotspur Women have put an emphasis on locking down their best players this week. After the hugely important new contract from Olivia Holdt earlier this week, in the past two days the club also announced two more important contract extensions — Swedish winger Matilda Vinberg and head coach Martin Ho.
Vinberg first — she’s been a revelation this season under Ho, adding width, pace, and crossing ability from the left flank this season. She’s developed a lot over the past season and locking her down to a new long-term contract feels more than appropriate. The Swedish international currently has one goal and two assists in 11 matches so far this season.
Ho’s extension is even more appropriate. He’s taken a team that nearly got relegated under now Portland Thurns head coach Robert Vilahamn, enhanced them through key signings in the transfer market such as Cathinka Tandberg, Signe Gaupset, and Toko Koga, and got them playing an offensive-minded, progressive style of football that they have responded to dramatically. Spurs are still knocking at the door of the big WSL clubs that perennially qualify for Champions League, but they’re back on their perch as Best of the Rest in fifth place in the table, and are continuing to improve. Ho has a clear plan on how to develop this team, and he’s worked wonders so far. It’s certainly worth committing to him and his tactics, since the players are absolutely responding to his coaching.
Ho has described Tottenham Hotspur Women as a “sleeping giant.” He’s currently in the beginning stages of waking them up, and it’s gratifying to see the club recognize that fact, and reward him for the excellent work he’s already done.