Graham Potter has admitted he hopes Tottenham reach the Europa League final.
West Ham welcome Spurs to the London Stadium on Sunday, with the clash sandwiched between the Lilywhites' Europa League semi-final against FK Bodo/Glimt. Tottenham already have one foot in the final after winning the first leg 3-1, although Ange Postecoglou will be keen to get the job done properly next Thursday.
Before the second leg, though, Tottenham face West Ham in the Premier League. The Hammers are currently 17th in the table while Spurs are 16th and Potter believes it is important his side pick up all three points against their London rivals.
“Spurs have had a tough season in the Premier League, because of injuries and other reasons. That just shows that in this league, nothing’s forgiven,” said Potter.
“But, they’ve done well in Europe, and hopefully they can get the job done and get to the final. This is the most important game for us, because it’s the next game. And then you add on the fact it’s a London derby, and the added importance for our supporters.
“I feel for our supporters because they’ve had a tough year. That’s the reality. They’re frustrated, understandably so, and we want to try and give them something back.”
Postecoglou will likely field a much changed side against the Hammers, although will be without Lucas Bergvall who is set to miss the remainder of the season with an ankle injury. Bergvall sustained the issue in training on Wednesday and Ange Postecoglou does not expect the 19-year-old to play again in the 2024-25 campaign.
Postecoglou also expressed concern over James Maddison’s condition after a knee injury forced him off in Spurs’ 3-1 victory over Bodo/Glimt. “Lucas looks like the injury is significant enough to keep him out for the rest of the season,” Postecoglou explained.
“He was on his own, went to turn and his ankle gave way. Dom (Solanke) is not too bad, still sore from last night but nothing too serious. A doubt for the weekend. Madders a bit more of a concern because it’s the knee. We’ve sent him for a scan.”