Football.London

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has inadvertently offered his support to Ange Postecoglou after Tottenham Hotspur's recent injury crisis - insisting no manager in the Premier League could be successful with a raft of injuries.

Postecoglou has faced increasing pressure in North London in recent months, with his side sitting 12th in the table after a run of six defeats in ten Premier League games. During that time, however, Spurs have had to deal with one of the worst injury crises in recent memory, with as many as ten players ruled out at the end of January.

After Spurs' FA Cup fourth-round defeat to Aston Villa, Postecoglou, in his second season at the club, hit back at the critics and saluted the commitment his players have shown during a testing couple of months at the club. Now, ahead of Liverpool's trip to Manchester City this weekend, Reds boss Slot has insisted even the best sides can be derailed by injuries.

Asked what had caused an upturn in results for City in recent weeks, Slot said: "Players available! The style of play has always been the same for all the years Pep has been at Barcelona, Bayern Munich or at City.

"That's what I like from every manager: if they wear different shirts, you still think, 'Ah, this is a team coached by Pep Guardiola'. That is what we have seen even in the period that they have dropped points.

Ashleigh Neville became the first Tottenham Hotspur player to make 100 appearances for the club in the Women's Super League when she lined up against Arsenal on Sunday but the day ended in disappointment.

The 31-year-old arrived at the club back in 2017 and was part of the squad that first earned promotion to the WSL in 2019. On Sunday, Neville not only recorded her 100th appearance in the league, but it also marked her 171st in all competitions for the north London outfit.

Unfortunately, the day ended with a heavy 5-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium with Spurs finding themselves two goals behind at the break through Alessia Russo’s deflected header and Mariona Caldentey's effort. Arsenal goals from Frida Maanum, Russo and Emily Fox in the second half sealed the hosts' dominant victory.

"It’s a difficult one to take," said Neville. "We knew it would be a tough game but to concede five goals, we know that’s not good enough. We will come back after the international break, when all the girls are back, and look at that, but it just wasn’t good enough from us.

"It wasn’t an early goal but we had a conversation that if we conceded, we are still in the game, 1-0 isn’t the end of the world, but then we conceded a second and we just couldn’t find the momentum from then on. They are a great team, we can’t take that away from them, but we just weren’t great."

On reaching 100 WSL appearances, she added: "It’s a proud moment and especially being the first Spurs player to do that, I’m really proud of that. It’s not the result we wanted, but we go again for the next game.

"We have Manchester City after the international break, so the girls will go away with their countries, some of the girls will stay here and work, and we will come together for another tough game against City but we’ll be ready for it."

Tottenham Hotspur Women's boss Robert Vilahamn admitted that his side just could not keep up their bright start on the day.

"Extremely tough to lose in big numbers to Arsenal, of course," he said. "If you look at it, in the first 10 minutes, we looked quite good and then we had a spell for the rest of the first half which is not good, they were really strong in that moment and they scored a few goals.

"We tried to get back into the game in the second half, but they had some very clinical finishes. When Martha and Drew came on, we got back in the game, we played with more control and tried to create a few chances but, then again, they had a really strong attack at the end and scored a few more goals, so it’s a really tough loss."

The Swede added: "We need to make sure we reflect on this game, make sure we analyse it, and get better as well because, tactically, we can do better stuff and make better decisions.

"Those players that will stay and train, we’ll make sure to use them and make sure we can develop them during these two weeks, and when everybody comes back, we have a big game, so it’s more about preparing for that because it is against a top team. So, we need to make sure we learn from this and have a little bit of a better structure when we defend."

Discussing the future of Tottenham's bright young stars & what changes Ange Postecoglou should make for Ipswich. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham

Tottenham's 2024/2025 season can still be salvaged despite a string of poor results under Ange Postecoglou. Throughout December and January, scrutiny increased, significantly, as Spurs secured just one Premier League victory in that time-frame.

February arriving saw things change in league action, as wins over Brentford and Manchester United were picked up with clean sheets arriving in both. However, those two positive results came either side of them being knocked out of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup in rather limp fashion.

Spurs' injury list has been rather considerable over these last few months and though five returns arrived this past weekend, some important stars remain absent. Fringe players have stepped up as a result and that could present a number of dilemmas for Postecoglou to solve.

Regardless of those absentees, one problem has been clear in that period and Tottenham should have a simple fix for that this summer. With that being said, football.london has taken a look at what could happen at the club over the coming months.

Van de Ven returns

Though Tottenham have improved defensively following the arrival of Kevin Danso, Micky van de Ven being back will come as a huge boost. Postecoglou explained recently why the Dutchmen has not featured in the past few weeks, despite playing 45 minutes against Elfsborg last month before adding that he hopes he will return in March.

"We've had a few people externally looking at him and give him some more guidance and information, added to our stuff, which he can do differently around - not so much the injury - but to help his body adapt to the extreme athlete he is and can be," the Spurs manager revealed.

"You always want to protect your assets and he is a major club asset and to protect his longer-term career for the sake of a couple of weeks is worth it." Because of the complex investigation being completed, it is not guaranteed when Van de Ven returns next month.

With Spurs lacking consistency in the league, finishing in the top-eight appears unlikely, which places all focus on winning the Europa League. Coincidentally his estimated return date is in time for Spurs' last-16 first leg and if resting him on the weekend in league action allows him to keep playing in Europe, that may be a sacrifice worth making.

Spence change

While injury concerns have hampered Tottenham's season, the emergence of Djed Spence is one huge positive to take. Since their 5-0 win against Southampton in December, Spence has played 90 minutes on nine occasions with his recent form resulting in him being added to Spurs' Europa League squad.

In the absence of Destiny Udogie, most of those appearances have actually come at left-back but, with the Italian returning, Spence's minutes could decrease. However, he has quite simply been too good to drop - and that should make it a relatively easy decision for Postecoglou to move him out to right-back in place of Pedro Porro.

Spence is more sound defensively than the Spaniard, but he will need to improve his attacking output. Porro is also one player that has been forced to play every three days and therefore a prolonged rest is well overdue.

Cardoso agreement

The majority of injuries for Tottenham have been in attack and defence, but it is in midfield that problems have since arisen. Lucas Bergvall, Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma are all quite clearly No.8s - and their eagerness to engage in tackles has been made clear despite Tottenham needing them to shield the defence.

Ever since the departure of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, a natural defensive midfielder has been missing in there. Though he was not exactly comfortable in possession, he could be regularly relied on to spot danger - and prevent attacks from becoming dangerous.

Thankfully, in negotiations to sell Giovani Lo Celso back to Real Betis, Spurs included an intriguing clause which allows them to sign Jonny Cardoso for just £21million during a select period this summer.

The 23-year-old is a very capable midfielder and he could be perfect for Spurs and this season has highlighted the need for a player with his profile. As such, with other clubs interested, the sooner that purchase option is taken up the better for Tottenham.

Victory against Man United, talking about those fan protests & the Vicario and Maddison's triumphant returns. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!

Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham side have a lot to do if they are to finish the 2024/25 campaign in one of the Premier League's European places. In a season which has been heavily disrupted by a host of injuries to key players, Spurs sit 12th in the standings after 25 games.

The north London club trail Brighton & Hove Albion in 10th by seven points, with seventh-place Newcastle United, in what may well be the final European spot, 11 points ahead of Tottenham. You can never say never in the Premier League but Spurs will have to put a winning run together and hope that other clubs drop points along the way if they are to claim a European spot.

Speaking last week, Postecoglou outlined that he wants to address the club's current league position and finish the season strong with plenty of fixtures still to come. With 13 league games left on the calendar, we have taken a look at Tottenham's five toughest games between now and May.

Wednesday, February 26 - Tottenham vs Manchester City

Tottenham will be out to make it six wins from six against Manchester clubs this season when they take on Pep Guardiola's team next week. Winning on all three occasions against Manchester United this term, Spurs have already beaten City in the Carabao Cup and also in an emphatic 4-0 win at the Etihad Stadium.

The reigning champions have been far from their best this term as they currently sit fourth in the Premier League table and are now out of the Champions League after a 6-3 defeat against Real Madrid. There is also the possibility that City come into the Spurs game on back-to-back defeats as they host Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday.

Regardless of their mixed form this season, City are still going to be a huge test for Postecoglou's side in north London.

Wednesday, April 2 - Chelsea vs Tottenham

Tottenham have an absolutely terrible record at Stamford Bridge since the start of the Premier League era back in 1992. Even when Spurs have gone into games as favourites due to Chelsea's form, the north London club still find it extremely hard to leave SW6 with all three points in the bag.

Tottenham were very poor in the same fixture towards the end of last season and deservedly fell to a 2-0 defeat. The Blues' form has been rather up and down of late but Enzo Maresca will be hoping his team are back on track by the time April comes around.

Saturday, April 19 - Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest

As things stand, Nottingham Forest are in a good position to seal an unlikely place in next season's Champions League. Nuno Espirito Santo's side are third in the Premier League table after 25 games, four points ahead of Bournemouth and Chelsea in fifth and sixth respectively.

Given there is a lot of football to be played before the sides meet at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium midway through April, it's going to be interesting to see if Forest can maintain their place towards the top of the table or they slip down the standings. The East Midlands club have already beaten Tottenham this season after sealing a 1-0 win at the City Ground on Boxing Day.

Boasting players such as Chris Wood, Anthony Elanga, Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi in attack, the team is built on a solid backline featuring Nikola Milenkovic, Murillo and Ola Aina. It really is going to be a tough test for Spurs.

Saturday, April 26 - Liverpool vs Tottenham

This game at Anfield could prove key in the destination of the title as the Reds look to win the Premier League crown for only the second time. Liverpool currently have an eight-point lead over Arsenal in the title race, although they have played one more game than their nearest rivals.

A lot can change between now and then but it looks set to be a key fixture in Liverpool's calendar. The previous two league games between the sides on Merseyside have been extremely entertaining, with the Reds running out 4-3 and 4-2 victors respectively despite Spurs giving them a real second-half scare.

Postecoglou will want to go one better this time and leave with a win.

Sunday, May 18 - Aston Villa vs Tottenham

As was the case two years ago, Tottenham play Aston Villa at Villa Park very late in the season. In May 2023, Unai Emery's side prevailed 2-1 and that result proved key in the battle for European football as the Midlands club qualified for the Europa Conference League and Spurs missed out altogether.

Tottenham may not be in a fight for a European place via the league come the middle of May because of their current league position but it will still be a key game in terms of trying to finish as high up the table as possible. Spurs do have a decent record against Aston Villa since the Villans returned to the Premier League in 2019 and they will want to gain revenge for their FA Cup exit at the beginning of February.

Discussing the futures of Tottenham's bright young stars & what changes Ange Postecoglou should make for Ipswich - click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham

Tottenham will be out to make it three Premier League wins in a row when they travel to Ipswich Town on Saturday afternoon. Ange Postecoglou's side were victorious last weekend against Manchester United with James Maddison getting the only goal on his return to the team.

It was certainly a much-needed win as Tottenham responded in the best way possible to their FA Cup and Carabao Cup exits. Spurs are still seven points adrift of the top half but they have the opportunity to try and reduce the gap when they take on relegation-threatened Ipswich Town.

The Tractor Boys have only won three league games all season but they did pick up a valuable point last Saturday as they registered a 1-1 draw at Aston Villa. As midweek football returns for Tottenham next week with Manchester City visiting N17, Postecoglou will likely freshen up his Spurs side in Suffolk.

Here we take a look at possible changes the 59-year-old could consider for Saturday's 3pm kick-off.

Archie Gray for Ben Davies/Kevin Danso/Pedro Porro

Archie Gray could be in contention to come back into the Tottenham starting XI after getting a breather in the win over Manchester United. The teenager was introduced in place of Kevin Danso for the closing stages of the contest as he partnered Ben Davies at centre-back.

Gray could possibly come in for one of Davies or Danso, who sustained a knock prior to his substitution, against Ipswich or the other option would be to take Pedro Porro's place at right-back.

Destiny Udogie for Djed Spence/Pedro Porro

Destiny Udogie should certainly be in contention for a start after getting another week of training under his belt. The Italian was an unused substitute last time out but he looks a certainty to feature this weekend.

If he is to start, it could either be Djed Spence or Porro who make way. If it is the Spaniard, Spence could move over to his natural side to allow Udogie to play at left-back.

Yves Bissouma for Rodrigo Bentancur

Rodrigo Bentancur was another to pick up a knock against Manchester United and there could be a chance to rest him after a decent run in the team. As Manchester City are up next after the Ipswich away game, Postecoglou may want to drop some of his regulars down to the bench to ensure they are nice and fresh for the visit of the champions.

Yves Bissouma will be hoping he gets the nod if there is to be a midfield change.

Pape Matar Sarr for Lucas Bergvall

Pape Matar Sarr is another who could come into midfield this weekend, possibly in place of Lucas Bergvall. The Senegalese ace played 26 minutes against Manchester United last weekend and Postecoglou may want to boost his minutes prior to the game at home to Pep Guardiola's side.

Brennan Johnson for Dejan Kulusevski

Dejan Kulusevski could certainly do with dropping out of the team for a game now that Tottenham have more attacking options at Postecoglou's disposal. The Swede has appeared in all 40 of Spurs' games this campaign, with the player starting 23 of their 25 Premier League fixtures.

Postecoglou will no doubt want to increase Brennan Johnson's pitch time and that may mean the Wales international starts ahead of Kulusevski on the right flank.

Wilson Odobert for Son Heung-min

A change could also take place on the left flank as Son Heung-min is another who is due a rest. The Tottenham boss has been unable to give his captain time on the sidelines as he has needed him in his XI with so many players out injured.

Postecoglou must decide whether Wilson Odobert is in a position to start after his first appearance in almost four months last weekend or if the Frenchman's minutes come from the bench again. If he believes the summer addition can start, Son may drop out of the side to accommodate the ex-Burnley man.

Victory over Man United, talking about those fan protests & the Vicario and Maddison's triumphant returns. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!

Tottenham and Ange Postecoglou could still make moves in the transfer market – even before the summer window opens on June 12.

Spurs came out of the January transfer window with mixed results. The north Londoners signed Antonin Kinsky, Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel, but they also missed out on strengthening in other crucial areas. Despite winning their two Premier League matches since the window's closure, they've also now been eliminated from both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.

Postecoglou is still under enormous pressure due to Tottenham's ongoing injury crisis this season. But if the Australian can navigate the next few months without further setbacks, this summer could provide a golden opportunity to strengthen his side, especially through free agency.

Jonathan David and Angel Gomes, both at Lille, are now free to begin pre-contract negotiations, and either signing would significantly improve the Spurs squad. The club has certainly reaped the success of free agents in the past, with football.london now taking a look back at five big-name stars that Spurs managed to bring in for free.

Ivan Perisic

Ivan Perisic is a past example of Spurs’ shrewd transfer activity, having been signed as a 33-year-old on a free transfer in the summer of 2022. Perisic was brought in as a versatile wide player by then-head coach Antonio Conte on a two-year deal, having won Serie A under the Italian in the previous season.

The Croatian had also been on Manchester United's radar for a long time, with Jose Mourinho keen to bring him to Old Trafford in the summer of 2017. But Inter Milan rejected a bid from the Red Devils, delaying Perisic's move to England by several years.

Perisic was an ever-present part of the team in his debut season, making 44 appearances before suffering an ACL injury in his second season, which led to a loan move to Hajduk Split in his home country for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign. This season, he has enjoyed a resurgence in his first campaign with PSV, who are currently battling Ajax for the Dutch title.

Fraser Forster

Goalkeeper Fraser Forster was signed just days after Conte brought in Perisic in June 2022, also on a free transfer. The experienced shot-stopper would begin his Spurs career a month later on a two-year deal, once his contract with Southampton officially ended.

Forster continues to serve as a back-up goalkeeper for Spurs, having made 34 appearances across all competitions, including 13 this season in the absence of Guglielmo Vicario.

Teddy Sheringham

In May 2001, Tottenham agreed to re-sign legendary striker Teddy Sheringham following his successful four-year stint with United, where he won the Treble. Sheringham had previously spent five years at White Hart Lane from 1992, netting 76 goals in 166 league games before his £3.5m move to Old Trafford.

At-the-time Spurs boss Glenn Hoddle was an admirer of the forward, having regularly picked him for the England squad during his time in charge of the Three Lions. That played a crucial role in reaching an agreement in May to bring the 35-year-old to north London once his contract with United expired.

Sheringham made an immediate impact at Spurs, helping them achieve their highest finish in six years and reach the League Cup final. After scoring 26 goals in 80 appearances, he had brief stints at Portsmouth, West Ham, and Colchester United before hanging up his boots.

Brad Friedel

Tottenham made a smart move to sign veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel on a free transfer in June 2011. The USA legend joined on a two-year deal at the end of his Aston Villa contract the following month.

During his time at Spurs, he became the oldest player to feature in a Premier League match, playing 67 games for the club before retiring at the end of the 2014/15 season.

Lewis Holtby

Spurs managed to secure the signature of Lewis Holtby from Schalke in January 2013, beating rivals Arsenal to the highly-rated German playmaker. Holtby had impressed with his performances in the Bundesliga and had even captained Germany's U21s before breaking into the senior team.

But despite being set to join Spurs in July, the north Londoners fast-tracked the transfer after a serious injury to midfielder Sandro, with Holtby arriving in January instead for £1.5m. He made 39 appearances for Spurs in his first 18 months before falling out of favour under Tim Sherwood, being loaned out to Fulham, and eventually leaving for Hamburger SV in August 2014.

Ange Postecoglou and Tottenham won't have to wait too much longer to discover their Europa League round of 16 opponents. Having secured a top-eight finish in the league phase, Spurs have been given a rare breather and the opportunity to watch on at a time when others are fighting it out for a place in the last 16 of the competition.

The knockout phase play-off round comes to a conclusion on Thursday evening, with the draw for the next stage of the Europa League taking place at the House of European Football in Nyon, Switzerland at midday on Friday, February 21. From the knockout round play-offs onwards, the competition is using a bracket system, just like in major international tournaments, and Tottenham's route to the final and possible opponents will be mapped out.

Spurs already know that they will face one of Real Sociedad, Galatasaray, AZ Alkmaar or Midtjylland in the round of 16. Going on the new structure of UEFA club competition and where they finished in the league standings, Manchester United are also able to draw one of the quartet.

The north London club will be seeded in Friday's draw, meaning they will be at home in the second leg of their round of 16 fixture. Tottenham will be drawn in either the silver or orange side of the bracket and the Red Devils will be on the opposite side of the draw to them, thus determining their route all the way to the final in Bilbao in May.

So what exactly are Tottenham's best and worst case round of 16 draw scenarios? football.london takes a look below.

Worst case scenario

Real Sociedad are ideally the team Tottenham would like to avoid in the round of 16, although Postecoglou and his players would no doubt be confident of advancing over two legs if they are to be paired together. The Spanish side are in a very good position to win their knockout phase play-off tie after beating Midtjylland 2-1 in Denmark last week.

Sociedad do boast some very good players in their squad, including Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo. However, they currently sit 11th in La Liga but they are only four points away from Rayo Vallecano in the final European position.

Another worst case scenario for Tottenham would be that Galatasaray somehow overcome a 4-1 deficit from the first leg against AZ Alkmaar to qualify. The Turkish side secured a 3-2 win over Spurs at the beginning of November but they could have scored six or seven on another day given the amount of chances they passed up.

Games in Istanbul are extremely tricky to navigate and Spurs probably would want to avoid another encounter against the Turkish giants as they look to triumph in the competition.

Best case scenario

Midtjylland are the best case scenario for Tottenham in the round of 16 but the Danes have a huge challenge on their hands trying to overcome Real Sociedad in San Sebastian. However, you can never say never in cup football.

As things stand at present, AZ Alkmaar would be the best case scenario for the north London club. Spurs have already beaten the Dutch side this season having secured a 1-0 win over them at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in late October.

AZ, who have former Tottenham man Troy Parrott leading the line, have impressed in Europe this term and would not be straightforward opponents over two legs. You would have to say they are the best opponent for Tottenham if it is them and Real Sociedad who are to prevail given their leads from the first leg, however.

Victory over Man United, talking about those fan protests & the Vicario and Maddison's triumphant returns. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!

Tottenham have entered into talks with Ineos to potentially end their sponsorship agreement two years early, a new report has claimed. The petrochemicals giants are also associated with Manchester United as CEO Sir Jim Ratcliffe holds a stake in the Old Trafford club.

Since having his partial takeover of United confirmed this time last year, Ratcliffe has gone on significant cost-cutting measures which has included cutting several jobs, cancelling the staff Christmas party and removing bonuses for stewards.

With Ineos now more commonly known to be involved in decisions at United, it has been easily forgotten that they are one of Tottenham's many sponsors. Ineos are 4x4 partners of Spurs with their Grandier vehicle which sees the brand's logo printed in the dug-outs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

That was why Ineos branding was prominently on display during United's clash with Spurs this past weekend despite it being away from Old Trafford. However, that may not be the case at Tottenham's next game on home soil against Manchester City later this month.

According to the Daily Mail, Ineos are in talks to end their five-year agreement early with it claimed amicable discussions are taking place between both parties. Ratcliffe has gone on quite the cost-effective crusade in the last 12 months with decisions made to terminate other partnerships elsewhere.

An early exit has already been made over a partnership with New Zealend Rugby, but the All Blacks have since announced they will be taking legal action after seeing their agreement, worth £3.7m a year which was due to run until 2027, end prematurely.

In addition to that, a deal with Sir Ben Ainslie’s America’s Cup team has also been terminated. Ineos’ 33.3 per cent stake in Mercedes' Formula 1 is also at threat having already attempted to re-negotiate terms, as per The Telegraph.

Victory over Man United, talking about those fan protests & the Vicario and Maddison's triumphant returns. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!

Gylfi Sigurdsson, the former Premier League playmaker, has joined Vikingur Reykjavik who are competing in the Europa Conference League.

At the age of 35, the former Tottenham star transfers from Icelandic team Valur to join last season's runners-up in Iceland's premier division, who have secured their spot in the European competition.

Vikingur impressed many by finishing 19th in the league stage of the Conference League, outperforming teams such as Hearts and Istanbul Basaksehir, and progressing into the knockout play-off round. A recent 2-1 victory at home has given them an advantage after a first leg win over Panathinaikos, edging closer to the round-of-16.

The club has just strengthened their squad with Sigurdsson, eight years on from his £45 million move to Everton. Kari Arnason, a former Vikingur star and experienced defender who enjoyed stints at Rotherham United, Plymouth Argyle, Aberdeen, and the Icelandic national team, spoke to the Daily Star about the electric atmosphere at the club.

"Walking around my old neighbourhood; everyone's high fiving everyone - it's brilliant," Arnason said as he reflected on the club's impact after their European qualification. "I feel like our football club has become the centre hub of the neighbourhood. They turn up in masses now. I think the neighbourhood has about, 8000 people in it - and we have like 1000 people coming to every game.

"I mean, it's a tall order for an Icelandic team making it to the Europa League or the Champions League because there's some very strong teams there, especially in the later phases of both the Europa League and Champions League.

"So asking us to do that, I'm not saying it's impossible, but it's very difficult. Although we are setting our sights on Europa League for next season."

Vikingur Reykjavik are gearing up for their crucial second leg against Panathinaikos on Thursday in Athens, where they'll be vying for a spot in the round of 16, potentially facing off against Fiorentina or Rapid Wien.

Victory over Man United, talking about those fan protests & the Vicario and Maddison's triumphant returns. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!

Rotation is likely to be in order this weekend when Tottenham Hotspur travel to Ipswich Town. Having gone so long with having to field the same players every three or four days due to an injury crisis at the club, things do appear to be easing up on that front now.

Last Sunday saw Guglielmo Vicario and James Maddison return to the Tottenham team in the win against Manchester United, with Brennan Johnson and Wilson Odobert introduced off the bench in the second half following their time in the treatment room. Destiny Udogie was also part of the squad for the first time in 2025 but remained an unused substitute for the 1-0 victory.

Speaking last Friday, Postecoglou revealed that it will be "the next two or three weeks" when injured players such as Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Richarlison and Dominic Solanke make their comeback. One player who could possibly be included in the matchday squad at Portman Road this weekend is Timo Werner.

Recently returning to the training pitch with the first-team squad, the German was not included in the matchday party for last weekend's win over Manchester United but the boss did mention prior to the match that Werner "is getting pretty close to being available".

The possible addition of Werner to the matchday squad would add to the attacking options available to the head coach. Boosted by Johnson and Odobert returning to the pitch in their previous Premier League game, Postecoglou may now want to introduce one or possibly both to the starting XI for Saturday's trip to Ipswich.

After all, he did mention in his pre-match press conference last Friday that he wants his players making their comeback to "have played significant minutes" ahead of next Wednesday's Premier League home encounter against Manchester City.

"Madders is a possibility. Destiny, with the guys who have missed a little bit more, Madders has been a shorter term one, we will see," he said when asked if Maddison or Udogie could start at home to Manchester United.

"They may be on the bench and we look at our schedule when next week we have no game and can train and then the following week we have got a midweeker so what I really want is when we get to that midweeker that Destiny, Brennan, Wilson and Timo, at a stretch, call get some gametime so when we need to rotate from Ipswich into City that these guys have played significant minutes."

As Johnson and Odobert could be pushing for a starting spot in Suffolk, a rare Son Heung-min opportunity could arise for Postecoglou. The South Korean has struggled to hit top form this season and a reason for that may be to do without the amount of football he has played.

The 32-year-old has played 34 of Tottenham's 40 games this term, with the captain missing out through injury six times. Out of his 34 appearances, Son has started 30 of them and come on as a substitute on the other four occasions.

Even in the cup games against Tamworth and Coventry, Son was needed from the bench to help get the job done rather than getting a rest for the full game. The Europa League was seen as a competition to help Postecoglou rotate his team and give regulars a rest and start those on the periphery of the starting XI.

However, Son has started all six of his appearances in the competition this season as Spurs haven't been in a position to give him a breather due to the amount of injuries and also the need to get points on the board for qualification. It is worth pointing out, though, that he did only play the first half of the Galatasaray and Elfsborg games as Postecoglou didn't want to push him too much.

Amid question marks over his form this season coupled with the return of Johnson and Odobert, the opportunity will be there for Postecoglou this weekend to drop his captain down to the bench if he so wishes. As Manchester City are next on the calendar and with midweek football to ramp up again from the start of March when Tottenham next play in the Europa League, it is an opportunity Postecoglou has to take given how the season has panned out so far.

Victory over Man United, talking about those fan protests & the Vicario and Maddison's triumphant returns. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!