Football.London

Tottenham given immediate worry after new signing's 'failed medical' and transfer collapse

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Tottenham's latest recruit, Kevin Danso, reportedly failed a medical at Juventus just days before his north London move. The 26-year-old defender joined Spurs on loan from Lens until the end of the season, with an obligation to make the move permanent for £21m in the summer.

Fellow Premier League side Wolves had also been discussing signing Danso throughout the January window, but Tottenham swooped in at the last minute to hijack the deal.

However, Alfredo Pedulla now reports that Juventus were also interested in Danso prior to his Spurs move, but had to abandon their plans due to a medical issue. This has perhaps left Ange Postecoglou, who has seen his backline embroiled in an injury crisis this season, rather worried.

It is suggested that The Old Lady initially agreed to buy Danso from Lens, but cancelled the agreement after a problem arose during his medical. They are now poised to bring in Lloyd Kelly from Newcastle.

This isn't the first time Danso has experienced such a situation, as Roma reportedly agreed to sign him last summer, only to backtrack after the medical examination, reports the Express.

With injuries to Cristian Romero and Radu Dragusin as well as ongoing question marks surrounding Micky van de Ven's fitness, Tottenham manager Postecoglou will hope Danso remains fit for the rest of the season and that this reported failed medical will not result in any problems, especially as they pulled out of the running for Chelsea's Axel Disasi on Deadline Day.

Danso's failed medical aside, Postecoglou – whose team managed to win 2-0 at Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday without a recognised centre-half – couldn't hide his excitement after securing the defender's signature, enthusing: "It's brilliant [to get him]. I think Kevin will be a great fit for us. We're a little bit short at the back, we have been for a while.

"He's just really experienced, a good one-on-one defender. I've said before that getting new players in gives us energy and will give the group energy. I'm looking forward to him being part of the group."

Danso isn't a stranger to English football, either. Born in Austria to Ghanaian parents, he moved to Milton Keynes aged six and progressed through the academies of Reading and MK Dons before moving to German side Augsburg.

The defender also enjoyed a stint on loan with Southampton during the 2019/2020 season before joining Lens in 2021, where he made a name for himself in Ligue 1 and helped his team to Champions League football last season.

Spurs' next test, meanwhile, comes in their Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at Liverpool on Thursday. Tottenham hold a 1-0 aggregate lead after a first-leg triumph in north London.

Tottenham dream transfer deadline day scenario

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We have now entered the final few hours of the January transfer window. A key month for Tottenham in the market due to a host of injuries, fans have been left rather frustrated because of a lack of business.

Moving quickly to secure highly-rated goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky from Slavia Prague, Ange Postecoglou's second January signing only arrived on Sunday after Tottenham clinched a deal for Kevin Danso from Lens. The centre-back gives Spurs some much-needed cover in the position but they are still rather short there.

As well as looking to sign another centre-back, Tottenham also require a further attacking option. The club were keen on bringing Mathys Tel to the club from Bayern Munich but the Frenchman turned down a move to the capital.

So what exactly would constitute a dream end to the transfer window for Tottenham? football.london takes a look below.

Wonderkid agreement

Southampton ace Tyler Dibling has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur this month. The teenager has enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough season at St Mary's and he has come to the attention of a number of top clubs in the process.

The Exeter-born player looks a certainty to depart Southampton but it is a question of when. Spurs could make their move to sign him ahead of rival clubs and also give themselves an attacking boost heading into the remainder of the campaign.

Dibling mainly plays off the right-wing but he has also played as an attacking midfielder and forward for Southampton this season. The 18-year-old has four goals to his name in 24 appearances and he has also contributed two assists.

Tottenham already have some very exciting talents on their hands, with Dibling another who can help Postecoglou create a team for years to come. It would be a nice way to finish the transfer window if Spurs can tie up a deal for Dibling.

Centre-back signs

Following the signing of Danso from Lens, Tottenham need to sign another centre-back prior to Monday's 11pm deadline. The extent of Radu Dragusin's injury will soon become clear and it remains to be seen when Cristian Romero will return as Postecoglou admitted after the Brentford game that the Argentine is "still a little bit away".

Tottenham had held talks with Chelsea over a loan move for Axel Disasi, who has also been heavily linked with Aston Villa during the transfer window. However, football.london understands that Spurs are now not at this point pursuing a loan move for the Frenchman.

Following the Disasi news, Johan Lange needs to ensure that Postecoglou has an alternative centre-back to work with from this week onwards.

Loan outgoings

It is not just about incomings for Tottenham on transfer deadline day as outgoings also need to take place. The Lilywhites cannot afford to lose players permanently due to the current status of their squad but there could be the possibility to loan out some players.

Alfie Whiteman would benefit from a loan move elsewhere as he has dropped a place in the goalkeeping pecking order following Kinsky's arrival and it won't be too long until Guglielmo Vicario returns from injury. Tyrese Hall is someone else who requires a loan exit as he needs regular first-team football to help aid his development in the game.

Damola Ajayi could also be the subject of transfer interest after making a big name for himself against Elfsborg last Thursday with a goal on his Tottenham debut.

Listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham by clicking here for in-depth Spurs chat on your preferred podcast platform.

Leon Bailey hijack, Axel Disasi stance, Mathys Tel update

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Welcome to the latest Tottenham Hotspur transfer blog as deadline day finally arrives! The January window will close at 11pm tonight as Spurs have just a few hours remaining to complete their transfer business.

Ange Postecoglou has already strengthening his squad after a tough run of results across Janaury. Kevin Danso has arrived on a loan deal from Lens with an obligation to buy as Spurs strengthen their centre-back options following the injury to Radu Dragusin. Antonin Kinsky and Yang Min-Hyeok have also signed for Tottenham during the window.

There is the possibility of more defensive reinforcements based on some of the latest transfer rumours. Chelsea centre-back Axel Disasi has been linked with signing for Tottenham before the transfer window closes, although some reports have suggested a deal may not be straightforward to complete.

There is also likely to be speculation surrounding the future of Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel as the deadline approaches. Spurs have been linked with signing the 19-year-old, who is also reportedly wanted by Arsenal and Manchester United.

Another player linked with Tottenham in recent days is AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori. The former Chelsea star has been tipped to leave the San Siro before the window closes, with updates on the centre-back's future likely to intensify as the deadline nears.

Away from transfers, Tottenham are busy preparing for the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool on Thursday. Spurs go into the game on the back of a 2-0 win over Brentford in the Premier League and currently have a 1-0 advantage over the Merseyside club from the first leg.

Axel Disasi and two Tottenham transfers Johan Lange can seal for Ange Postecoglou on deadline day

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It is a huge week of football on the calendar for Ange Postecoglou and his Tottenham side. Victorious at Brentford on Sunday afternoon with a 2-0 win in west London, Spurs face two cup games over the coming days that could shape their season.

Travelling to Merseyside on Thursday evening to take on Liverpool in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, the Lilywhites are then at Aston Villa three days later in the FA Cup. Before those two games come around, Tottenham have the final day of the transfer window to try and negotiate.

A very frustrating month for the club with Antonin Kinsky their only arrival prior to the signing of Kevin Danso on Sunday, Tottenham will want to get another deal or two over the line as they look to boost their squad for the remainder of the season. There could possibly be another centre-back arrival following on from Danso, with Spurs also requiring another attacker after failing to entice Bayern Munich's Mathys Tel to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Speaking on the signing of Danso prior to the Brentford game, Postecoglou said: “Brilliant (to get him). I think Kevin will be a great fit for us. We’re a little bit short at the back, have been for a while and he’s just really experienced, a good one-on-one defender.

"I’ve said before that getting new players in gives us energy and will give the group energy. I’m looking forward to him being part of the group.”

So what deals could Tottenham complete before Monday's 11pm deadline? football.london takes a look below.

Axel Disasi/alternative centre-back

Axel Disasi looks set to feature prominently in the headlines on deadline day with a Chelsea exit possibly set to come to fruition. The centre-back has found game time extremely hard to come by under Enzo Maresca and it may now result in him departing Stamford Bridge prior to the deadline.

Heavily linked with Aston Villa over the course of the month, Tottenham have come into the mix for the 26-year-old as they bid to add some cover to their depleted defence. What could scupper a potential move to Villa, though, is that Chelsea are competing with the Midlands club for a Champions League place and they won't want to directly strengthen a rival team.

That in turn may leave Disasi with a big decision to make in the final few hours of the winter market. If it isn't to be Disasi, Tottenham need to bring in an alternative centre-back following Radu Dragusin's injury and the question marks over Cristian Romero's return date.

Attacking option

Tottenham cannot afford to leave themselves too light in attack in the final few months of the season with so much still to play for. Dominic Solanke is still to return from injury and there is no guarantee Richarlison stays fit for the remainder of the campaign going on his injury frustrations at the club so far.

Tottenham are also light out wide at present, although they have Brennan Johnson, Timo Werner and Wilson Odobert to return in the not too distant future. A player who can operate on the wing and also through the middle would be the ideal winter addition for Postecoglou and the football club.

Johan Lange really needs to make it happen after their struggles in the transfer market so far this month.

Loan exits

Tottenham cannot afford to lose any of their senior squad before the deadline due to a lack of numbers but they could possibly sanction loans for their academy players. Will Lankshear departed the club on Friday evening after joining West Brom on loan for the remainder of the campaign, with the club making the decision to keep Dane Scarlett in N17.

Tyrese Hall is one player that would certainly benefit from a loan move as he needs to experience first-team football on a regular basis to help aid his development and the same goes for 22-year-old Max Robson. Damola Ajayi may have also come to the attention of some clubs following his Europa League exploits last Thursday.

Listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham by clicking here for in-depth Spurs chat on your preferred podcast platform.

Axel Disasi decision and Mathys Tel late check as Tottenham mull transfer deadline day swoops

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Tottenham Hotspur enter the final day of the January transfer window knowing they've still got work to do.

Ange Postecoglou's squad has needed bolstering for weeks but the first outfield arriving only finally walked through the Hotspur Way doors this weekend in the shape of centre-back Kevin Danso.

Before that, Spurs had moved to bring in a new goalkeeper in Antonin Kinsky, who secured his first Premier League clean sheet at Brentford on Sunday afternoon.

Postecoglou is finally getting some of his injured players back, but with the constant toll on the squad of the fixtures and not wanting to get themselves into the ridiculous situation of recent months ever again, Spurs need to increase the squad size, even if just on a temporary basis.

Here's the state of play at Tottenham as transfer deadline day begins and heads towards its 11pm closure.

Outgoings

There's unlikely to be much to see in this category, certainly in a first team capacity, because Postecoglou cannot really afford to let anyone go.

In a normal scenario, Spurs would be happy to let Sergio Reguilon go this month because his contract ends this summer, so any money gained or opportunity to save on his salary would be taken.

However, in the current situation, with left-backs at a premium at the club, they might think twice about trying to push the Spaniard out of the door, even though Postecoglou has shown no real desire to start him in matches.

The chances are anyway that Reguilon himself would prefer to wait for a more lucrative summer move as a free agent.

Postecoglou has already said he does not envisage Timo Werner's loan ending this month, despite transfer links to MLS and the Bundesliga, as he needs all the attacking options he can get. The German is currently injured and due back in the next week or so.

With so many goalkeepers at Tottenham, any loan move for Alfie Whiteman - out of contract in the summer - might be contemplated but he is also one of the club's only two club-trained players in their Europa League squad.

Otherwise the only outgoings on deadline day could be development squad players.

Damola Ajayi will have caught the eye of a a few clubs with his impressive Spurs debut and goal in this week's Europa League win against Elfsborg. The north London side will weigh up the potential development benefits if a club comes forward for the 19-year-old against the current need for squad numbers and also not leaving the U21s short.

Development squad midfielder Tyrese Hall would certainly benefit from a loan move if one arises before the window closes as would a number of his colleagues in Wayne Burnett's U21s side.

All eyes will be on what offers emerge in the final hours of the window at first team and development squad level with unexpected approaches normally a feature of deadline day.

Incomings

Let's get the positions that don't desperately require any more incomings on deadline day out of the way first.

First up is the goalkeeping department, which is now fully stocked after Kinsky's arrival. There are also three right-backs at the club currently in Pedro Porro, Djed Spence and Archie Gray.

Spurs could do with another natural left-back, but at this point with Destiny Udogie returning in the coming week and Spence and Ben Davies able to play in the role, and Micky van de Ven and Archie Gray at a push, that's an area that perhaps merits the wider scope of the summer window to sort. Some could well argue that it should have been fixed last summer.

While you can never rule out a late opportunity arising, central midfield looks well stocked at the moment with Rodrigo Bentancur, Yves Bissouma, James Maddison, Pape Matar Sarr, Dejan Kulusevski, Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray. Spurs also have an option to sign Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso in the summer.

The two main areas where Spurs could improve their squad on deadline day lie in central defence and attack.

Spurs added Danso to their ranks on Sunday but still had to play 18-year-old midfielder Gray alongside Davies in the 2-0 win against Brentford, meaning a back four without a natural centre-back. Postecoglou is managing Micky van de Ven's return carefully and admitted to football.london that Cristian Romero's own injury has proved more problematic and a "slow healer".

The Australian then said on Sunday that Radu Dragusin's knee injury does "not look good" and the Romanian is seeing specialists on Monday to learn the full prognosis.

That leaves Spurs still skating on thin ice with their centre-back options, even with the addition of Danso.

Postecoglou was asked on Sunday afternoon whether Spurs could sign another central defender.

"It's about seeing where we're at in terms of the fit of the player. It's not just about bringing another body in, I've said that all along," said the Spurs head coach. "We're still a little bit thin defensively I think. It goes under the radar, but the job Archie Gray's doing is just ridiculous. 18-years-old, he's never played centre-back before, he's playing in the Premier League and Europe midweek, every game. It's just incredible that's he's churning it out and Ben's been brilliant.

"But really at the moment, Micky we've got to be careful with, obviously, because he's been out for a while. Getting him back's great. Cristian, we feel, still a little bit away. Again, if the right opportunity exists, we'll go for it."

Spurs have held talks with Chelsea over a loan move for Axel Disasi to bridge the gap to the end of the season, although reportedly the player has not been as keen to agree to the move as he would be a switch to Aston Villa.

The 26-year-old has made just four Premier League starts for Chelsea this season and has got most of his minutes in the cup competitions.

While the France international would provide extra cover, his lack of pace could be exposed in Tottenham's high line and he could quickly become four or fifth choice if Romero, Van de Ven, Danso and Davies are all fit, which means a situation no better than he has at Chelsea.

Postecoglou is also wary of having to convince players to join a club rather feeling their hunger to do so, which would make such a move an odd one.

Spurs' technical director Johan Lange will have other names on his list and further opportunities could arise as the day progresses if Disasi is not a move that advances any further.

The problem for Tottenham is that they are unlikely to want a long-term solution in the role with Luka Vuskovic arriving in the summer from Hajduk Split and that narrows their options for the position.

Had Dragusin not landed awkwardly on Thursday night then full focus would have been on Postecoglou's main wish for this window, which was another attacker.

The Australian has spoken about his need for a new forward repeatedly throughout the window, particularly as he watched his various options dropping like flies with injuries. Even when they all return - Wilson Odobert is going to need a while in training before he's ready - Postecoglou could still do with more attacking thrust.

Spurs made an attempt to sign 19-year-old Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich only for a publicly-reported rejection by the teenager. Now reports in Germany suggest talks between Bayern and Manchester United, Tel's perceived preferred destination, have collapsed with Arsenal also linked with a move.

Are Tottenham completely out of the race? It will be interesting to see what happens as the day goes on and whether Spurs are still monitoring the situation in case Tel's thinking shifts. Again, would Postecoglou want a player who had not seemed keen on the move at one point or would that be explained away for someone with so much potential.

There is also a British alternative in Southampton's 18-year-old winger Tyler Dibling, who has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Premier League and was back on the bench after an ankle injury, in the win at Ipswich on Saturday.

Tel is a big talent and Dibling has already proved his ability in the English game despite his age.

In an ideal world, Postecoglou would get an attacker on deadline day who can play across the front line. There is no guarantee Richarlison will remain fit based on his history at Spurs so someone who can also play through the centre would be a huge benefit.

Spurs, among others, have previously shown interest in Lille forward Jonathan David, who is out of contract this summer. However, with 20 goals and eight assists in 33 games, including six Champions League goals in eight matches, the French club will not be desperate to let him go despite his contract situation at this late stage of the window.

The Canada international could be a wanted man for a number of clubs in the summer window if tomorrow closes with him still in Ligue 1.

Postecoglou is a big admirer of Bryan Mbeumo but so are most other managers. Brentford have batted away speculation that they will allow the 25-year-old to go anywhere this month and the Cameroon international will have a queue of major suitors in the summer.

There has also been a move made to add a little depth to Tottenham's U21s squad with 18-year-old Manchester City attacking midfielder Dan Batty set to join.

However, all eyes will be on the first team tomorrow and whether Lange can pull a gem out of the bag before the deadline. Postecoglou is hoping for at least one more new arrival.

"I think the club is still looking there for opportunities," the Tottenham head coach said on Sunday. "I've said all along they've been working hard and we don't want to bring just anyone in, and sometimes that takes a bit longer, which is frustrating for everybody.

"I guess it's frustrating for the club, it's frustrating for the players, it's frustrating for me, but I'm really pleased we got Kevin in because he's a good fit and if we can find another one then that'd be great."

Listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham by clicking here for in-depth Spurs chat on your preferred podcast platform.

Mathys Tel makes final Arsenal transfer decision after brutal Tottenham rejection

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Mathys Tel has decided to join Manchester United when leaving Bayern Munich according to the latest report from Germany, in what is a blow for Arsenal following Tottenham Hotspur's rejection this week.

According to Florian Plettenberg, following the decision to leave Tel informed his Bayern superiors of at the start of the week, he has now made his wishes known to join Man United specifically.

Arsenal had emerged as a key contender heading into the final days of the window. Club officials reportedly reached out to German counterparts to determine the possibility of a short-term loan that would suit both the Gunners and the player.

Whilst it is said they are not out of the race, it is 'concrete' negotiations with Old Trafford chiefs that are most prominent right now.

These talks are underway, though no agreement has yet been reached. Man United allegedly had a first offer rebuffed because Bayern were not satisfied with the proposal.

Bayern are supposedly pushing for the inclusion of either an optional or obligatory purchase option as part of a winter deal.

Tottenham had been the first Premier League suitor to present their project to the 19-year-old, however after face-to-face talks with chairman Daniel Levy, the teenager chose not to join the club.

football.london first reported in January that Chelsea had also made contact in an attempt to land the player, who has long been a target at Stamford Bridge.

Every word Ange Postecoglou said on more Tottenham transfers, Danso, Van de Ven, Dragusin and Spence

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Ange Postecoglou held his press conference after Tottenham won 2-0 at Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday and we've got a full transcript with every single word the Australian said.

Spurs took the lead half an hour into the contest when an inswinging Son Heung-min corner struck Vitaly Janelt on the line and bounced into the Brentford goal. Tottenham fought away in a tight encounter as the hosts sent 37 crosses into the box and substitute Pape Matar Sarr scored their second late in the second half.

Son sent a pinpoint ball into the midfielder's run and the young Senegal international poked it through the goalkeeper's legs and into the net to seal the much-needed victory.

Our Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold was among those putting the questions to Postecoglou after the game. Below is a full transcript from the press conference at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Brentford put in 37 crosses today, you must be really proud of how your team defended?

Yeah, difficult place to come, difficult place to win at, but also a difficult place to keep them out because the way they play and the way they set up, you have to defend your box it doesn't matter how you play. They're getting throw-ins into the box, set pieces, crosses, you're just going to have to do that irrespective of how you want to tactically approach it, and I just thought the lads handled that awfully well.

We knew we had to. It was going to be key for us, nullifying their threats, and the lads were brilliant and I still felt we had the quality of our football to hurt them the other way. Our second goal was outstanding and we were always a threat when we had it, so credit to the boys, they were brilliant.

There's been difficult moments throughout the season, especially with the fans as well, but how did that feel at the end of the game when you walked over and all the away support were standing on their feet cheering the team?

Yeah, great. It's great for the supporters, great for the players too, because they're all hurting, you know, the players are hurting as well. I know the supporters are, it's not where they want to see their team, and certainly not where we want to be. We need to rectify that, but yeah it was great to see that we could enjoy this game, enjoy the result, get the rewards for it, for both the players and the supporters.

It's only one game, we need to rectify our league position, we know that. We're not in a league position we want to be anywhere near. It's been disappointing, but through that time, not through a lack of effort or will or determination by the players, they're giving everything and I was super pleased today that they could share that moment with the supporters.

The club announced the signing of Kevin Danso this morning, how pleased are you to get him through the door and what's the update with Radu Dragusin?

Great to get Kevin in. We desperately need a defender, but getting him is great because he's a great fit for us. He's had a strong career, but he's at an age now where he really wants to kick on. He's got all the attributes we look for, he's really strong one-on-one, he's quick, he's dynamic, he wants to play on the ball, so, and like I said he's just at a stage of his career where he's really determined to kick on now and make an impact. So really pleased, I think it'll be a lift for the whole group.

With Radu, we'll probably have more information tomorrow. It doesn't look good, but I think he's seeing specialists tomorrow and we'll have more information then.

Deadline day tomorrow, are you expecting the club to be busy?

I think the club is still looking there for opportunities. I've said all along they've been working hard and we don't want to bring just anyone in, and sometimes that takes a bit longer, which is frustrating for everybody. I guess it's frustrating for the club, it's frustrating for the players, it's frustrating for me, but I'm really pleased we got Kevin in because he's a good fit and if we can find another one then that'd be great.

Did that feel like one of the most significant wins of the season given all the circumstances?

I guess in the context of where we are in terms of the season, yeah, it's an important one because, like I said, our league position's not good enough, we need to address that. We need to improve, but It's still the same group of players doing Thursday, Sunday. You can't get away from that fact, and, you know, people can kind of dismiss it, but playing Thursday, Sunday, consistently without being able to rotate takes its toll.

The Premier League is a relentless competition. You're meeting teams who've had a seven day break and we've had literally 48 hours sometimes, so from that perspective, I think the pleasing thing is that, you know, we got Micky back on Thursday night, we got Djed back in today, signing Kevin, at least the group now, I think are getting some sort of encouragement and energy from the fact they're getting some help and that certainly, I've got no doubt they'll assist us in in addressing our our position in the league.

And we've got some massive opportunities as well in the back half of the year, so important because we have to improve in the league. There's no doubt about it, where we are it's not good enough, but I think significant because it was again done by the same group of players who we've asked to do this for quite a while now.

Are you looking for another centre-back on the last day?

Look I think, again, it's about seeing where we're at in terms of the fit of the player. It's not just about bringing another body in, I've said that all along. We're still a little bit thin defensively, I think. It goes under the radar, but the job Archie Gray's doing is just ridiculous. 18 years old, he's never played centre-back before, he's playing in the Premier League, and Europe midweek, every game. It's just incredible, that's he's churning it out. And Ben's been brilliant. But really at the moment, Micky we've got to be careful with, obviously, because he's been out for a while. Getting him back's great. Cristian, we feel, still a little bit away. Again, if the right opportunity exists, we'll go for it.

Stylistically, today was very different from how it has been, backs against wall, low block at the end, what happened to Angeball? Is it just the period you're in that you're happy to be pragmatic?

Look... how do I say this without repeating myself and it not sounding like an excuse... It's very difficult for a group of players to play Thursday and Sunday and maintain energy and levels. What they're doing is giving maximum effort. And maximum effort in a game like today means you can't be sharp and really dynamic with and without the ball. It's just impossible. They're human beings, they're not robots. People want to dismiss it, they want to talk about excuses. But that's the reality. I know the reality. These guys are giving everything. We knew today it wasn't going to be a game where we could go out there and dominate. Because Brentford had a week to prepare for this. We had 50-something hours. With the same group of players. I think with that context, the performance was outstanding.

Micky played on Thursday, but not in squad today, was it a setback?

No, look, like I said before the game, he played 45 [on Thursday]. The plan was maybe to play him 45 again today. But then we had a think about it, spoke to Micky as well. And I thought, I'd rather he has another full week of training, get ready for Thursday night, that's a big game for us as well. We had Djed back today, which gave me some comfort that we could cover him. He was never going to play more than 45 minutes today. I just felt, after discussing it with the medical team and with Micky as well, as desperate as he is to play, I just think we've got to be really smart about how we integrate him back into the team. And obviously Thursday night's a big game for us. And again, having a week of training, hopefully we'll get him ready for that.

Have you agreed a loan deal for Axel Disasi?

I've been busy for the last couple of hours mate, so I'm not really sure what's going on. I'll check my phone when I get back in the room.

Will you give me a ring?

I'll do my best, just wait by the phone..

How important has Djed Spence become to you?

Yeah he's been outstanding since he's come into the team. He had to bide his time. It's fair to say we needed Djed to really be patient, and also just mature a little bit, and I think he has. And once he got into the team he's looked fantastic. And he was important for us today, I think we'd missed him the last couple of games. He's one of these defenders that loves the challenge of taking on the elite in the Premier League wingers, there's some outstanding ones. And Bryan Mbeumo's right up there, especially here. You can see he loves that challenge. Like I said, that's another reason we kept Micky on ice, knowing Djed was back in, was going to help us enormously. So pleased to get him back in the team. He'll be important for us until Destiny gets back. He'll be important for us in this period.

Could Archie Gray become a centre-back long term?

Who knows. But you can't lose sight of the fact he's never played there before. I just think he's a fantastic player. I'm so pleased he's at this football club. And he's a fantastic kid as well. He just wants to learn, no task is too much for him, he tackles everything with a real kind of calmness, that belies his years. He wants to learn, he wants to get better. We are just very, very fortunate to have him at our football club. Whatever position he ends up playing, he's going to be outstanding. He has that attitude of wanting to improve, wanting to get better. He's already set a high benchmark. There aren't many 18-year-olds who you could throw into the Premier League, play out of position in such an important area of the park, and handle it the way he has. Just brilliant.

Listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham by clicking here for in-depth Spurs chat on your preferred podcast platform.

Tottenham handed Mathys Tel transfer deadline day alternative as £29.5m clause emerges

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Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on signing Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap before the January transfer window shuts on Monday.

Delap scored his ninth goal in the Premier League this season on Saturday in the Tractor Boys' 2-1 defeat to Southampton at Portman Road. Despite Ipswich's struggles in the top flight this campaign, the 21-year-old centre-forward has proven himself to be a bright spark for Kieran McKenna's men.

The forward was signed permanently by the Suffolk club in the summer from Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's side do have a buy back clause inserted into his deal valued at £29.5m which they could choose to activate.

The Mirror understands that City may choose to activate that option before deadline day as clubs from across the Premier League are currently sniffing around the striker. While Spurs are mentioned as an option by our colleagues, they are not alone in their interest.

Chelsea, Manchester United and West Ham are all thought to be keen on Delap too, with United now joining the race If Tottenham are to complete a deal for the striker, he would be seen as an alternative to Mathys Tel, with Ange Postecoglou keen to add to his attacking ranks.

Tottenham had a bid of £50m accepted by Bayern for Tel this week but hit a dead end after the forward decided to reject their advances. Football.london understands that Arsenal and United now have an interest in Tel and that Spurs are having to look elsewhere.

It is believed that the 19-year-old is wanting a loan move in this window instead of a permanent exit to allow him to keep his options open. Meanwhile, Spurs can expect to pay anywhere between £30-50m for Delap should they want to complete a permanent deal for him.

'I am deeply embarrassed' - Ange Postecoglou receives apology from manager after Tottenham jibe

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Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens has apologised to Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou for a comment mocking the Australian's recent injury complaints.

Wellens was speaking to the media on Saturday evening after watching his side lose 1-0 to Stockport County in League One. After the final whistle, Wellens was asked if the injuries to Sean Clare and Omar Beckles were causing the Os to struggle at present, to which the 44-year-old replied: "I'm not Ange Postecoglou, [who] keeps using it as an excuse."

Those comments caused plenty of controversy especially considering Orient have goalkeeper Josh Keeley and striker Jamie Donley on their books this season from Tottenham. Later on Saturday evening, Wellens chose to retract his comments and apologise to Postecoglou.

In a statement on the Leyton Orient website, Wellens said: "After today’s game, I was asked about the injuries within our squad and, without thinking, I made a stupid comment about Tottenham Hotspur. That comment was brought to my attention later in the evening and having watched my interview back I am deeply embarrassed and regret what I said.

"At Leyton Orient, we have a strong relationship with Tottenham Hotspur and it was never my intention to say anything that would jeopardise that. Their manager, Ange Postecoglou, is a world-class coach and I want to apologise for my comments and wish Spurs all the very best for the second half of the season."

Spurs currently have eight first team players out of their squad due to injury but moved up to 14th in the league table on Sunday after recording a 2-0 away win against Brentford - their first Premier League victory since a 5-0 win at Southampton on December 15.

Tottenham boss on Micky van de Ven, Danso and transfers

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Ange Postecoglou is speaking to the media after Tottenham Hotspur won 2-0 at Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday.

Spurs were without Micky van de Ven following the 23-year-old Dutchman's 45-minute return in the 3-0 win against Elfsborg. with Ange Postecoglou explaining the absence of the centre-back as "trying to manage his minutes"

The visitors began the contest nervously but did take the lead half an hour in when an inswinging Son Heung-min corner hit Vitaly Janelt on the line and bounced into the Brentford goal.

Spurs battled away in a tight encounter and substitute Pape Matar Sarr scored their second late in the second half. A pinpoint ball from Son into the midfielder's path sent him into the box and the Senegal international poked it through the goalkeeper's legs and into the net to seal the win.

Our Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold is among those putting the questions to Postecoglou after the game. Scroll down for his latest updates from the press conference at the Gtech Community Stadium.