Spurs Odyssey

PREMIER LEAGUE

SATURDAY 23rd AUGUST, 2025

MANCHESTER CITY 0(0) TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 2(2)

Spurs scorers:-

Johnson, 35

Joao Palhinha, 45+2

Attendance:- TBC

Referee:- Peter Bankes

Assistants:- Eddie Smart, Blake Antrobus

Fourth official:- Andrew Kitchen

VAR:- Andy Madley

Assistant VAR:- Sian Massey-Ellis

Teams:-

Man City (4-2-3-1):- 1. Trafford; 82. Lewis, 5. Stones, 3. Dias (Capt.), 21. Ait-Nouri (sub 6. Ake, 23); 4. Reijnders, 14. Gonzalez (sub 16. Rodri, 75); 52. Bobb (sub 47. Foden, 75), 10. Cherki (sub 20. Bernardo Silva, 54), 7. Marmoush (sub 11. Doku, 54); 9. Haaland

Subs not used:- 31. Ederson; 33. O'Reilly, 45. Khusanov; 27. Nunes

Booked:- Gonzalez (unsporting conduct)

Spurs (4-3-3):- 1. Vicario; 23. Pedro Porro, 17. Romero (Capt.), 37. Van de Ven, 24. Spence; 29. Sarr, 6. Palhinha (sub 4. Danso, 90+1), 30. Bentancur; 20. Kudus (sub 15. Bergvall, 86), 9. Richarlison (sub 19. Solanke, 78), 22. Johnson (sub 28. Odobert, 78)

Subs not used:- 31. Kinsky; 16. Vuskovic, 33. Davies; 14. Gray

Booked:- Johnson (kicked ball away), Romero (dissent after foul on Bobb), Richarlison (unsporting conduct), Pedro Porro (time)

Thomas Frank has joined an exclusive club!

Thanks to Cassim Patel for this picture.

Thomas Frank led his former side Brentford to a 2-1 victory at the Etihad in November 2022 and today became just the third manager to defeat Pep Guardiola in an away league match with two different clubs. Jose Mourinho was the first with Real Madrid in 2012 and Manchester United six years later, and he was followed by Antonio Conte at Chelsea in 2016 and Spurs in 2022.

As you can see, the other two managers in that club also achieved the feat with Spurs, which is a pretty exclusive club too!

This third win over City in our last five away games was utterly deserved, with super performances again from every member of the team. It's our second consecutive away win against City (both with clean sheets!). The last time we did this was in May 2010. You'll remember that auspicious occasion when Peter Crouch's goal gave us our first Champions League entry. We truly are City's bogey side, pre- and post-Guardiola's arrival.

Both managers made two team changes. Pep started with Cherki and Marmoush in stead of Bernardo Silva and Doku. Rodri was not fit enough to start and made only a late cameo, when he looked a little short of fitness. Thomas Frank played the experienced Palhinha and Bentancur for the youth of Gray and Bergvall.

I anticipated a PSG-style 5-3-2 formation, but Frank proved flexible yet again and went toe-to-toe with his adversary, playing a 4-3-3. It was Palhinha's first Premier League start for his new club.

Spurs kicked off playing away from their fans. City sought to dominate and spent most of the first couple of minutes occupying our half, before Frank could be seen on the touchline urging his men to get forward. Thereafter, Spurs did press high, in numbers and gave City plenty to think about in their own half.

A pass from Cherki reached Haaland who was well blocked and was kept quiet most of the afternoon, missing the target with the few chances he mustered. In the City half Richarlison won the ball off Gonzalez, who then fouled our number nine. Pedro Porro's free kick from the left side was hit beyond the back post and cleared.

Haaland soon fouled Richie outside the City area. Pedro Porro's free kick was firstly blocked before he hit a second effort into the back of the side netting. At the other end Pedro hit a weak back-header and City's main dangerman Marmoush hit a shot across goal just in front of the goal line with Vicario beaten.

Richarlison pressurised Trafford and Kudus hit a cross/shot wide of the back post. Vicario cleared from Marmoush after the Egyptian had beaten Pedro Porro.

One of City's summer signings left back Ait-Nouri required treatment and the first rendition of "We want Levy out" could be heard. The fans are frustrated of course regarding Arsenal's hijacking of the Eze move, but as Thomas Frank has said, he only wants players who truly want to play at our club. Ait-Nouri tried but failed to continue and had to be replaced by Nathan Ake.

In the meantime, Oscar Bobb had passed to Marmoush, whose right-footed shot was very well saved by Vicario. Spurs broke forward down the left flank and Djed Spence fed the ball inside to Johnson, who sadly over-hit his first touch. Criticisms of Brennan in the Spurs crowd would soon be silenced!

Vicario had to save again from Marmoush who had been put through by Haaland's clever ball and was clear of the defence. One of City's stars at Molineux last week, another new signing Tijjani Reijnders, failed with his effort on goal after a (rare) poor example of play-out football by Spurs.

Spurs shocked the home side, and the crowd with a good break down the right side as Sarr sent Richarlison away. Richie crossed and Johnson was in the middle to score a second consecutive goal in our two Premier League games. Brennan has scored 23 goals in the last calendar year for club and country and also scored in our 4-0 win here last November.

The referee's assistant flagged offside (I think against Johnson), but VAR found that neither he nor his provider had been offside. The goal stood and we celebrated twice!

Richarlison had a chance blocked after the excellent Sarr pressurised the City keeper. Pedro Porro seemed to have been fouled just outside the box, as had Kudus by Trafford, but no foul was given. VAR could not intervene here. Kudus won a corner on the right after more Spurs pressure.

Seven minutes of added time were announced and in the second of those, we went two up! James Trafford was culpable here for a poor pass to Stones inside his area. Sarr pounced; the ball ran to Richarlison whose touch was blocked then Palhinha swept up to score his first Spurs goal with a powerful deflected shot.

Spurs fans chanted "Champions of Europe..." Their team had some stout defending to do as City desperately sought to reduce the deficit. Haaland headed over from Cherki's cross. It was a brilliant half-time scoreline!

Sticker spotted in City's away end toilets!

Thanks to Cassim Patel for this picture.

City were slow coming out for the second half. Spurs initially attacked down the left wing, but then Kudus lost possession in his own half and Palhinha blocked Ake's shot with strength. Haaland actually managed to bead the ball away from goal after a cross from the right. Spurs escaped what could have been a disastrous play-out when referee Peter Bankes adjudged Van de Ven to have been fouled.

Pep now introduced Doku and Bernardo Silva for Marmoush and Cherki. Spurs not only defended but also continued to press for another goal. Richarlison's challenge for a Pedro Porro ball was blocked. Bentancur led another break-out attack down the left channel, but Johnson's final effort was off target.

Palhinha won a midfield challenge. Richarlison took the ball on and tried to feed Johnson, but his first touch was overhit again. Richie headed over a Pedro Porro free kick, and also a left-footed cross by Kudus.

Spence was strong in defence against Bobb and won us a goal kick. Kudus had excelled in the City half, but he also defended brilliantly when chasing back to assist Pedro Porro and to surprise Doku by stealing the ball.

A free kick by Bernardo Silova was deflected out by Bentancur, but Spurs defended two consecutive corners. There was some sort of contretemps between Richarlison and Gonzalez and both were booked.

Trafford was in no-man's land outside his area when trying to clear a Pedro Porro cross, but the ball also evaded Pape Sarr. More City changes followed including Rodri's introduction. Rodri's first touch was to head a corner by his fellow substitute Phil Foden, but Vicario held that attempt.

Micky van de Ven made a fantastic goal-saving tackle to deny Foden after good play by Doku. Bernardo Silva headed onto the top of the Spurs net after Ake's cross.

Spurs threatened again when Pedro Porro passed to late substitute Bergvall. He passed to Odobert, whose right-footed shot was wide.

Four minutes of added time was announced. Spurs fans chanted "It's happened again" and "Top of the League" (which we are at this early juncture). The exodus of City fans had already begun. The "Oles" rang out for a spell of Spurs passing. Trafford even had to make a double save from Solanke's right-footed shot and Odobert's follow-up header.

I just want to point out that after just two games, we are six points ahead of West Ham with a better goal difference by 12! We host Bournemouth next Saturday, but that game at the London Stadium on 13th September should be spicy, especially with Kudus playing for us!

Here are a few more stats for you:-

When it comes to maiden top-flight away trips, we haven't tasted defeat in any of the last ten seasons (W5 D5).

Manchester City have won just four of their last 12 Premier League games against Tottenham Hotspur (D2 L6).

The last five Premier League meetings between Manchester City and Tottenham at the Etihad have produced 23 goals (9 for City, 14 for Spurs), with the away side netting at least twice in all five.

The last side to score 2+ goals in five consecutive top-flight away games against Man City were Sunderland between 1980 and 2000.

Tottenham Hotspur have won their first two Premier League games in a season for the first time since 2021-22, which was also the last time a manager won his first two league games with Spurs (Nuno Espirito Santo then).

In all competitions, Pep Guardiola has lost ten games against Tottenham Hotspur in his managerial career, also losing ten against Liverpool.

Spurs are also one of three teams he's faced 10 or more times and won fewer than half of his games against (11/24, 45.8%), along with Liverpool (6/24, 25%) and Real Madrid (13/27, 48%).

Enjoy the glow of this victory Spurs fans. I'm sure those grins will last us all week!

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. Squad numbers,appearances,bookings & goalscorers

. Read the preview for this game.

. All the Spurs Stats you could hope for here!

NORMAN GILLER'S SPURS ODYSSEY BLOG No 521

Submitted by Norman Giller

It will be 75 years ago next month that I first saw Push-and-Run Spurs play and I've been carrying a torch for Tottenham ever since, and the thumping start-of-season victory over Burnley made it burn even brighter. The real test will come against Man City at the Etihad on Saturday, by which time manager Thomas Frank will know if he can add the explosive Eberechi Eze to his squad.

I am assured the deal is ready to be wrapped up, and Eagle Eze is happy to become a glory-hungry Cockerel (and for a sentence like that I will understand if you want to give me the bird).

Most of my pre-season pessimism evaporated as Spurs took Burnley apart, with the enigmatic Richarlison living up to all his promise from his days at Watford and then Everton. That second goal - a volley described HERE by our guru Paul H. Smith - is an early contender for strike of the season.

While I loved this all-action Richarlison playing Brazilian football under blue English skies, I was even more impressed by the midfield probing and artistry of Mohammed Kudus. The Ghanaian international was the inspiration behind the best Tottenham moves and I am licking my lips at the prospect of seeing him line up alongside the equally gifted Eze.

When I am taken for my regular morning walk by our family dog - a fox-red Labrador called Betsy-Boo - I chat to a near neighbour who is a Hammers season ticket holder.

He has been spitting blood over the transfer of Kudus to what he calls "the enemy". I am looking forward to describing the impressive Kudus input to this victory. It will drive him barking mad.

But it's Saturday's visit to the Etihad that will give us a better clue as to just how good a season this could be. We have a habit of producing our best against City and one or three points there will be a signpost to exciting days ahead.

Blue Moon? A win would make this Tottenham addict OVER the moon ... even after 75 years of celebrating and suffering in equal measure (Tedious trivia from 'Know-all' Norm: Blue Moon was composed by Richard Rodgers, as was You'll Never Walk Alone, the Anfield anthem. So a New York Jewish genius who never saw a game of soccer in his life has Liverpool and Man City fans singing their heads off!).

Hope we're also celebrating over the fact that The Eagle has landed (and I am told it's likely that stunning winger Savinho is still coming in from Man City). It's all happening, folks, and will be recorded here in Spurs Odyssey, the website for discerning Tottenham fans...

COYS!

Here we go with the second week of our quiz that tests your knowledge of Tottenham players and the club's history...

Who wore the No 4 shirt in Tottenham's famous Push-and-Run championship-winning team, and against which country did he score for England with his first kick in international football?

Please email your answer to me at soqleague@gmail.com and make the subject heading Quiz Week 2. Deadline: midnight this Friday. I will do my best to respond to all who take part.

The rules are the same as in the previous 11 seasons. I ask a two-pronged question with three points at stake - two for identifying the player and one for the supplementary question. In the closing weeks of the competition I break the logjam of all-knowing Spurs-history experts with a real stinker of a tie-breaking poser that is based on opinion rather than fact. This is when I lose what few friends I have.

This season's main prize will be a framed certificate announcing the winner as SOQL champion 2026, plus three signed books to be revealed at a later date. Our current champion is Sue Webb, who was among many of you who go this season's easy-peasy kick-off question right.

Answer to question number one last week: Jimmy Greaves/Blackpool

See you back here on Monday.

COYS!

Follow @spursodyssey

NORMAN GILLER'S SPURS ODYSSEY BLOG No 520

Submitted by Norman Giller

Here we go again! I've been searching for the right word to capture my feelings as Tottenham face the new season at the start of my 12th year as a Spurs Odyssey blogger. I think you'll agree I have found the appropriate one: trepidation. Mind you, my mood considerably brightened with today's news that Tottenham are hoping to put the finishing touches to signing tricky winger Savinho from Man City and the explosive Eze (at last) from Palace, but don't believe it until you see them in Lilywhite shirts.

That thumping defeat by Harry Kane's Bayern Munich on top of the departure of Sonny and the long-term injury to James Maddison pitched me into pessimistic mood just at the time when I am usually preaching positivity.

On top of the Madders nightmare, Ange Postecoglou has departed. Kulusevski is out for months, and there are fitness doubts about Solanke and Udogie. No wonder I am under a cloud of gloom and doom. Sorry if I am dragging you down with me.

I cannot believe that I am typing the following sentence: If Spurs beat PSG in Udine on Wednesday they will win back to back European trophies.

You will have gleaned that I have little confidence that Tottenham will overcome the French giants, and I just hope we will be talking about football and not crowd violence when the shooting and shouting is over. We shall see.

A victory would get the Thomas Frank era off to a flying start, but let me share a piece of guidance my granny used to give me: don't hold your breath.

I was firmly of the view that the club should have allowed Ange until Christmas to feed off the euphoria of the Euro Cup triumph, particularly with a Champions League challenge on the horizon. But the managerial musical chairs gives jaundiced pundits like me the chance to talk frankly about Frank.

At least two of the many rumours about incoming transfers had better prove correct for Thomas to feel he was right to surrender that comfortable job he had with Brentford. The strongest tips I get from my Tottenham insiders is that the hugely talented Savinho and long-time target Eze could be on their way to N17. I certainly hope so for Thomas Frank's sake.

My frank advice to Thomas would have been that he should have stayed with the Bees rather than take on what Gerry Francis rightly labelled years ago "the impossible job".

That Pape Sarr-inspired victory over Arsenal in a weird NLD encounter in Hong Kong was an interlude that told us precisely nothing about either team. I rarely take notice of close-season results, but there was something about that 4-0 mauling in Munich that screamed 'trouble ahead.'

There was no passion, no pride and seemingly no plan. Let's hope PSG do not repeat the prescription that left Tottenham looking extremely unwell. There is no question that Spurs must spend boldly in this transfer window and the arrival of the likes of Savinho and Eze would certainly silence the doubters.

The season gets properly under way with Scott Parker bringing Burnley to his old Tottenham hunting ground on Saturday. By then, I just hope we have had time to lick any wounds after the PSG experience and will be showing off our new signings. Fingers crossed.

I cannot close without showering praise across the Atlantic on Heung-min Son, now showcasing his skill in Los Angeles. He is without question an all-time Tottenham great and I thank him for his sparkling, sporting service to Spurs. What an admirable ambassador for Asia. "Gomawo", said with a polite bow.

Now, back to basking in my mood of trepidation (considerably brightened by possible action in the transfer market).

COYS!

Sue Webb with her Spurs Odyssey Quiz League Winner's certificate

Here, on a much brighter note, we have our 2025 Spurs Odyssey Quiz League champion Sue Webb, who takes a wheelchair view of Tottenham as she and her husband Dean follow them all over the globe.

I just hope Spurs can match her stamina, desire and determination as they tackle the new season. Let's do it the Webb way as you take on week one of our 12th season of the Spurs Odyssey Quiz League. And the question - really tough, this one - is ...

Who signed for Spurs from AC Milan, previously played for Chelsea and against which team did he score a hat-trick on his debut for Tottenham?

Please email your answer to me at soqleague@gmail.com and make the subject heading Quiz Week 1. Deadline: midnight this Friday. I will do my best to respond to all who take part.

The rules are the same as in the previous 11 seasons. I ask a two-pronged question with three points at stake - two for identifying the player and one for the supplementary question. In the closing weeks of the competition I break the logjam of all-knowing Spurs-history experts with a real stinker of a tie-breaking poser that is based on opinion rather than fact. This is when I lose what few friends I have.

This season's main prize will be a framed certificate announcing the winner as SOQL champion 2026, plus three signed books to be revealed at a later date.

See you back here on Monday, hopefully in brighter mood. Enjoy the season! COYS!

Follow @spursodyssey

FRIENDLY MATCH

SATURDAY 26TH JULY, 2025

(3PM)

LUTON TOWN 0(0) TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 0(0)

Attendance:- 10,871

Referee:- Tom Nield

Teams:-

Luton (4-2-3-1):- 12. Keeley (sub 1. Shea, 84); 2. Walters (sub 29. Holmes, 71), 28. Makosso, 5. Anderson (sub 34. Luker, 84), 3. Naismith (Capt.) (sub 30. Kodua, 71); 7. Alli (sub 36. Phillips, 84), 17. Lonwijk (sub 37. Nelson, 61); 26. Baptiste (sub 20. Walsh, 61), 18. Clark (sub 44. Nordas, 71), 23. Saville (sub 27. Richards, 84); 21. Wells (sub 10. Woodrow, 71)

Subs not used:- 6. McGuiness

No bookings

Spurs (4-3-3):- 1. Vicario (Capt.), (sub 31. Kinsky, 46); 24. Spence (sub 76. Roswell, 78), 4. Danso (sub 67. Byfield, 64), 37. Van de Ven (sub 18. Yang, 80), 43. Donley; 14. Gray (sub 45. Devine, 77), 8. Bissouma (sub 53. Russell-Denny, 83); 20. Kudus (sub 57. Kyerematen, 79), 47. Moore (sub 52. Olusesi, 78), 22. Johnson (sub 42. Lankshear, 79); 11. Tel (sub 44. Scarlett, 77)

(Armband to Van de Ven)

Subs not used:- 46. Gunter (GK)

No bookings

Stalemate at Kenilworth Road

Thanks to Andy Park for the picture

If you were looking for sporting thrills today, then the climax of the British Lions' victory over Australia; Stokes' century and Woakes' first over against India offered more than did Spurs' two friendlies against League One opposition.

Having said that, marquee signing Mohammed Kudus did offer skill, pace, and excellent close ball control in this game. He also came closest to scoring for Spurs in the first half, but former Spurs academy keeper Josh Keeley was hardly bothered between the sticks.

James Maddison has only just returned to training and was not involved today. Dominic Solanke had a minor ankle injury and also did not take part. Jamie Donley was aa late replacement for Destiny Udogie and played the left back position "Udogie-style."

Thomas Frank is clearly seeking to get minutes into his players' legs before he takes a squad to Hong Kong and South Korea. He is also experimenting with formations and variations in the team. Kudus, Moore, and Johnson played right to left behind Mathys Tel. Kudus impressed (although he did concede potentially costly fouls just outside his own area). Johnson is clearly more suited to the right, and Mikey Moore would probably be better on that left flank.

Luton have suffered back-to-back relegations, and their team bears virtually no resemblance to that of the Premier League. They gave Spurs a decent test and should do well this season.

The Spurs fans gave an early rendition of "Champions of Europe - we know what we are" and no doubt that will be a staple for the season. We used to deride West Ham for singing the same song, but at least we have won the second most important European club trophy.

Spurs kicked off and played away from their fans. Tel threatened with a couple of early corners, before providing the pass for a Kudus shot from the right side of the box which was blocked in front of goal. Kudus then conceded one of those dangerous fouls, but the free kick was blocked.

Luton had a corner on the left, after which Saville's shot was just wide of the far post. There was also a chance for 35-year-old Nahki Wells (signed from Bristol City). That passed just wide, but he had been offside in any case.

Spence passed to Bissouma just outside his area. Bissouma made a storming run, feeding Johnson, who missed the target, but head also been offside.

I said regarding the earlier friendly against Wycombe that there had been no sign of last season's play-out style. With Vicario, I'm afraid this was most evident. Keeley's distribution was far better, in my opinion. Keeley and Donley had successful seasons with Leyton Orient last term.

I was also not happy with Spence at right back and after a poor bit of defending Millenic Alli hit a shot from a sharp angle wide across the goal. Makosso headed over from a corner, and the largely uninspiring first half was over.

The second half was no more exciting. Kinsky replaced Vicario and Van de Ven took over as captain. Spurs did enjoy a short spell of possession, but this ended with a poor effort by Bissouma. It could have been a shot or a pass.

Kinsky was called into vital action to save from Wells after a cross from the left, and he also scrambled to clear danger at his right-hand post. Wells had another shot but was off target.

Kevin Danso was replaced by 16-year old Junai Byfield, who impressed with a block of a Walsh free kick, which had been conceded by Kudus. Spence hit a very good long ball which reached Johnson on the left. He hit a cross which passed to the right of the area. That was returned by Kudus, but the defence got the better of Johnson.

After a raft of substitutions, the youngsters represented Spurs and put together some expansive exciting forward play. Byfield was involved in that before Olusesi (who also played against Wycombe today) provided a ball for Lankshear, who pulled his shot wide.

It's minutes and fitness that counts, rather than thrills and entertainment. Spurs now face tougher opposition (Arsenal and Newcastle) in Asia, before a trip to Bayern Munich and the August 13th European Supercup against PSG.

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As the 2024-25 campaign fades into memory, Tottenham Hotspur enter yet another defining summer. A season that began with promise under Ange Postecoglou gradually unraveled, revealing familiar weaknesses - fragile defending, midfield imbalance, and a lack of cutting edge against top opposition. Despite flashes of brilliance, Spurs fell far short of the required league standard for European qualification, raising tough questions about squad depth, ambition, and leadership. All this, despite the famous Europa League win, giving entry to next season's Champions League.

With Ange now gone and Thomas Frank reportedly stepping in, Tottenham's direction hangs in the balance. Frank, known for his tactical pragmatism and success with limited resources at Brentford, will face the challenge of transplanting that discipline to a club with bigger expectations and a much louder spotlight. Can he instill structure without sacrificing the attacking identity so integral to Spurs?

The answer lies not just in the dugout, but in the boardroom. Daniel Levy and the recruitment team must act decisively this summer. Key signings are needed-particularly in central defence, midfield control, and up front if Richarlison fails to prove a long-term solution. The shadow of Harry Kane still looms, not just in goals missed, but in leadership, influence, and emotional weight.

Yet, amid the uncertainties, Tottenham continue to push forward in areas often overlooked - like fan engagement and digital transformation. In a modern football era where clubs must connect with a global audience, Spurs are investing in tech solutions that enhance the matchday and online experience. Whether you're at the stadium or halfway across the world, interactive match programs and ticketing systems now often come paired with tools like a QR code generator, offering instant access to team news, exclusive interviews, classic highlights, and even retro features on legends like Glenn Hoddle or Steve Perryman. This blending of tradition and technology mirrors the club's broader struggle-to evolve without losing its soul.

Historically, Tottenham have always danced between flair and frustration. From the glory-glory nights of the 1960-61 Double-winning side to Pochettino's near-miracle in Amsterdam, the club has shown it can reach for greatness. But it's the consistency that remains elusive.

As the new manager prepares for pre-season and the transfer market begins to buzz, Spurs fans worldwide will - as ever - hope for more than just progress. They'll dream of silverware, stability, and a team that reflects the club's storied past and ambitious future.

The crossroads are familiar. The outcome? That, as always, is up to Tottenham Hotspur.

Follow @spursodyssey

PREMIER LEAGUE

SUNDAY 25TH MAY, 2025

(4PM)

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 1(1) BRIGHTON& HOVE ALBION 4(0)

Spurs scorer:-

Solanke (pen), 17

Brighton scorers:-

Hinshelwood, 51,64

O'Riley (pen), 88

Gomez, 90+3

Attendance:- 61,449

Referee:- Rob Jones

Assistants:- Adrian Holmes, Simon Long

Fourth official:- James Linnington

VAR:- Michael Oliver

Assistant VAR:- Richard West

Teams:-

Spurs (4-3-3):- 1. Vicario (Capt.); 23. Pedro Porro, 4. Danso, 37. Van de Ven (sub 33. Davies, 66), 13. Udogie; 14. Gray, 30. Bentancur (sub 8. Bissouma, 66), 29. Sarr (sub 28. Odobert, 46); 22. Johnson, 19. Solanke (sub 9. Richarlison, 66), 11. Tel (sub 24. Spence, 83)

Subs not used:- 31. Kinsky; 47. Moore, 64. Olusesi; 63. Ajayi

Booked:- Bentancur (foul on Gruda), Pedro Porro (foul on Mitoma), Davies (foul on Minteh)

Brighton (4-4-2):- 1. Verbruggen; 27. Wieffer, 29. Van Hecke, 4. Webster (Capt.), 3. Igor Julio (sub 34. Veltman, 59); 11. Adingra (sub 22. Mitoma, 46), 20. Baleba, 26. Ayari (sub 25. Gomez, 46), 17. Minteh (sub 6. Milner, 90+3); 8. Gruda (sub 33. O'Riley, 76), 41. Hinshelwood

Subs not used:- 39. Rushworth; 5. Dunk, 16. Cashin; 72. Howell

Booked:- Veltman (unsporting conduct)

I guess partying and playing football don't mix

Let's face it, to coin a phrase, Spurs had been "partying like it's 1999" since Wednesday night. It was a surprise that Spurs started with such a strong team. The partying was continuing around the ground in the pubs and on the streets before kick-off and in the ground where there was a terrific flag-waving anthemic celebration pre-match. The injured Son and Maddison were on the touchline to see those celebrations. Spurs were, after all, Europa League Champions 2025!

Brighton were our last day guests, and perhaps their players were overwhelmed a little by that atmosphere. Spurs need to create something like that noise pre-match next season.

Apparently, Brighton's Joao Pedro was absent because he had been involved in a spat with a fellow player in training this week. Pedro (signed from Watford two years ago) had been one of "The Seagulls" star players this season, scoring 10 league goals. 34-year-old Danny Welbeck, who has also scored 10 league goals, was absent. Ace left winger Kaoro Mitoma was not seen till the second half, when he had an immediate impact.

For Spurs, this was a dead rubber game, and as it happens, winning would not have helped us, as we finished 17th, in our worst ever Premier League position, with 22 defeats, our worse since 1934-35 in a 42-game season.

As in our away game in October, Spurs had a first half lead, which they surrendered. Brighton have achieved their first ever league "double" over Spurs in 13 seasons of league meetings since 1977.

Elsewhere in the Premier League, five teams were seeking to claim the remaining three Champions League places available. Manchester City, Chelsea and Newcastle succeeded. Spurs had already claimed their place through beating Manchester United on Wednesday in Bilbao. In theory, Brighton needed something from this game to claim eighth place and a European slot had Chelsea failed to finish in the top five and assuming they win the Europa Conference League on Wednesday. As it happens, eighth was not good enough.

Spurs kicked off and played towards the North Stand. The players and officials took the knee before kick-off. There were flashes of skill by Spurs such as when Archie Gray broke forward and took a return pass from Pedro Porro before making it almost to the Brighton area before having his advance blocked. Bentancur intercepted in midfield and passed to Tel, who won a corner on the left. That kick passed wide across the 6-yard zone. Gray won another midfield ball and fed Tel, but his shot was blocked.

Brighton responded through right back Weiffer, whose first effort was blocked. He got a second chance, but this one flew over the target. At the other end, Weiffer brought down Tel inside the area with a tackle from behind. Solanke stepped up; sent the keeper the wrong way and planted the ball to his left. "1-0 to the Champions" chanted the South Stand.

During a hiatus in the game, home fans chanted "Stand up for the champions!"

There was a flash of midfield skill by Sarr before Brighton went on the offensive. After a corner, Vicario saved well from Hinshelwood's header. Hinshelwood is the fourth generation footballing member of his family and scored against us in December 2023. He added two more goals today.

After another Brighton corner and good advantage played by referee Rob Jones, Spurs broke forward through Pedro Porro who gave Mathys Tel a great run at goal. He should have scored, but his shot was held by Verbruggen.

Picture courtesy of Gary Smith

At half-time Paul Coyte interviewed Steve Perryman at pitchside.

Brighton coach Fabian Hurzeler made a double substitution at half-time with Gomez and Mitoma coming on for Ayari and Adingra. Both would have an impact. Spurs seemed to revert to Bilbao tactics, rarely managing to get out of their half. They had little success with their play-out tactics. Their tired legs and bodies became telling.

Hinshelwood equalised in the 51st minute. Webster climbed to head down Gruda's corner and Hinshelwood fired the ball into the roof of the net. Vicario saved a rising shot by Gomez.

Spurs did have a very good chance from which they should have scored. Tel advanced down the left wing and Johnson was in the middle to receive his cross, sadly putting it wide.

Minteh was next to threaten for the visitors and Vicario made another good save. A shot by Baleba was deflected and rebounded of the post before Hinshelwood scored again. It followed another corner. This time Weiffer headed down and a Spurs foot pushed the ball into the scorer's direction when he made no mistake.

Spurs now made a triple substitution with Davies, Richarlison and Bissouma replacing Van de Ven, Solanke and Bentancur, all of whom were cheered off by the home fans.

Pedro Porro showed skill in his half to bring the ball forward before sending a diagonal pass to Bissouma who opted to try and feed Johnson. Nothing came of that move.

There was a bit of needle between Richarlison and Veltman after which the Brighton man was booked. Vicario held well from a Gomez header from a Brighton corner. Mr Jones awarded Brighton a penalty when Bissouma tackled Gomez from behind. Matt O'Riley scored from the spot and our positive goal difference disappeared. Matters were made worse in added time when Gomez scored a great solo goal beating Vicario to his left with a great right-footed 25 yard shot from the left side of the Spurs area.

No matter - Spurs could get back to partying, with a post-match parade of the trophy around the stadium.

After Wednesday, my personal "Angeometer" had swung back towards "in." It has moved back towards "out" now. Whatever happens, Spurs need a couple of genuine quality players (playmaker and defensive midfielder) in my opinion to be competitive in both the Champions League and Premier League.

In the meantime, let's gloat in the glory of a major trophy winning season.

Enjoy the summer!

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NORMAN GILLER'S SPURS ODYSSEY BLOG No 516

Submitted by Norman Giller

Shell-shocked Spurs are staggering towards the Europa Cup final in Bilbao like a drunk who has had his pockets picked and his shoelaces tied together. Their surrender to Crystal Palace yesterday was embarrassing in the extreme.

Now they have to somehow drag themselves through Friday's rearranged visit to Aston Villa before the showdown in Spain with a Manchester United side that is also in crisis mode.

Their record 20th Premier League defeat of the season was almost inevitable against a flying Palace team that is going to an FA Cup final date with destiny in confident and buoyant mood. On this form they will definitely give Manchester City a run for their money at Wembley.

Tottenham's supporters were in party mood following the confident elimination of Bodo/Glimt but the decision by Ange Postecoglou to play a virtual 'B' side pulled the plug on any celebrations.

The 2-0 scoreline was flattering to Spurs, as our guru Paul H. Smith reports HERE. The patchwork Tottenham defence managed to make two-goal Eberechi Eze look, uh, Harry Kane class as Palace completed a humiliating Premier League double over Tottenham.

He was given the freedom of the pitch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and should have had a hat-trick to show for his enterprise.

There was just one good piece of news after the Tottenham drubbing. Dejan Kulusevski - one of only three survivors from Thursday's triumph - limped off in the 19th minute. Postecoglou reported that he should be fit for the battle in Bilbao.

We will definitely need him and Sonny at full throttle against Manchester United, who have been nearly as paralysed as Spurs in the Premier League this season. The Lynch Mob chasing Ange have rarely made allowances for all the injuries Spurs have suffered, but even I have to admit that 20 League defeats are hard to stomach.

I have taken unmerciful stick from Spurs 'supporters' for arguing in favour of Ange, yet I know there is no way Daniel Levy will accept that dismal League record regardless of whether Tottenham win silverware in Spain. And would you back against it becoming 21 losses at Villa Park on Friday?

My only wish is that my critics - most hiding behind the armoury of anonymity - would not treat me as an enemy. All I want is what is right for Tottenham Hotspur. It's called 'supporting' a team, So many out there seem to delight in ripping into the club instead of getting behind Ange and his players.

If it's getting through my thick skin, goodness know what it's doing to Ange.

My sympathy is with the Spurs and United fans who will be fleeced for the honour of watching their struggling sides fight for supremacy in Bilbao on Wednesday week.

Hotels and airlines are pushing prices up to their maximum to cash in on the desire of supporters of both sides to say 'I was there.'

I just hope it proves worth it for those Tottenham fans digging into their pockets.

For Ange, the trip to Spain is likely to be a golden handshake adios. If Spurs win they automatically qualify for next season's Champions League. I know I am in a very small minority who would make out an argument for a victorious Ange to stay in his job until Christmas and then take the temperature.

If Spurs lose to United, Ange will become a walking dead man.

COYS!

My apologies, but I again make no excuses for repeating my personal plea for you to support my latest publishing venture, 'Life Begins At 90'. It is a joint effort by my 'child bride' Joyce and I that tells the story of our nine decades on this mortal coil, starting out 500 yards apart in London's East End before Hitler unleashed his bombers and The Blitz. It is a 21st Century love story, mixed and shaken with stories of my sports reporting life.

Our journey reached a pinnacle this year with my 90-year-old wife being awarded an MBE and me writing my 122nd book. Most important of all, £5 from every book sold will will go to the Music Man Project, which supports and encourages people with learning disabilties to grow and have a full life through music.

I hope you can put money where your hearts are. Please contact me at normangiller@gmail.com and I will give you full details of how you can get your name in the unique book. Thank you. So far just three of you have been in touch. I know we can expect better support from my Spurs Odyssey friends.

COYS!

Week 36 of our eleventh season of the Spurs Odyssey Quiz League, and the question is:

Who won 34 caps for the Republic of Ireland, was signed by David Pleat from Luton and which club did he join from Spurs in 2004?

Please email your answer to me at soqleague@gmail.com and make the subject heading Quiz Week 36. Deadline: midnight this Friday. I will do my best to respond to all who take part. There are around 60 out there within shooting distance of the SOQL title. You will soon hate me. What fun!

The rules are the same as in the previous ten seasons. I ask a two-pronged question with three points at stake - two for identifying the player and one for the supplementary question. In the closing weeks of the competition I break the logjam of all-knowing Spurs-history experts with a real stinker of a tie-breaking poser that is based on opinion rather than fact.

This year's main prize will be a framed certificate announcing the winner as SOQL champion 2025, plus three signed books to be revealed at a later date.

Last week's question: Which player turned down a contract with PSG, later joined Spurs from Turf Moor and what Tottenham squad number does he wear?

Answer: Wilson Odobert/28

See you back here on Monday. COYS!

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Spurs' record in Europe:- U.E.F.A Champions League P W D L F - A 53 22 12 19 90 - 75 (Finalists 2019) European Cup P W D L F - A 8 4 1 3 21 - 13 (Semi-Finalists 1962) European Cup Winners Cup P W D L F - A 33 20 5 8 65 - 34 (Winners 1963) UEFA Cup/Europa League P W D L F - A 163 94 39 30 333-145 (Winners 1972, 1984 Finalists 1974) Europa Conference League P W D L F - A 7 3 1 3 14 - 9 + Forfeited one game due to Covid - 09/12/21) Total P W D L F - A 264 143 58 63 523-276 Final Europa League Placings Pos P W D L F-A GD Pts Spurs 4 8 5 2 1 17-9 8 17 Frankfurt 5 8 5 1 2 14-10 4 16 Europa League Placings in full Eintracht Frankfurt Europa League record 2024/25 League phase:- Frankfurt 3-3 Viktoria Plzen Besiktas 1-3 Frankfurt Frankfurt 1-0 RFS Frankfurt 1-0 Slavia Praha FC Midtjylland 1-2 Frankfurt Lyon 3-2 Frankfurt Frankfurt 2-0 Ferencvaros Roma 2-0 Frankfurt Round of 16 Ajax 1-2 Frankfurt Frankfurt 4-1 Ajax

The game we've all been waiting for

It's our biggest game of what has been a diabolical league season, and hopefully Spurs can produce a performance and result to carry us through this two-leg tie. A trip to Germany next week will decide our fate, and potentially that of our head coach.

We last played Eintracht Frankfurt in the group stage of our 2022/23 Champions League campaign when we were led by Antonio Conte, and the German side were managed by Oliver Glasner, who is now succeeding at Crystal Palace. We drew the away match 0-0 and won 3-2 at home thanks to goals by Son Heung-min (2) and a Harry Kane penalty. At the time, Eintracht were the reigning Europa League champions.

Spurs topped the group, but Eintracht were runners-up. Both teams were eliminated at the Round of 16 stage. Eintracht were knocked out by Napoli, who are now managed by Conte, who left Spurs soon after our elimination by AC Milan.

Previously, we met Eintracht in March 1982 in the European Cup-Winners' Cup quarter-final. Goals by Paul Miller and Micky Hazard gave us a 2-0 home advantage, but Eintracht levelled the scores in the second leg with goals by Ronny Borchers and Bum-Kun Cha (there is no mis-spelling here). It took an 80th minute goal by Glenn Hoddle to give us a 3-2 aggregate win and a semi-final meeting with Barcelona.

Eintracht are currently third in the Bundesliga. Last Saturday they lost 2-0 away to Werder Bremen. It was the first time Eintracht had failed to score since a 4-0 defeat away to Bayern Munich seven games previously. They are managed by 44-year-old Dino Toppmoller, who replaced Glasner.

Eintracht Frankfurt are the third-highest scorers in the Bundesliga and thrashed Ajax 6-2 on aggregate in the last round of the Europa League. Hugo Ekitike has been in exceptional form with 19 goals in all competitions this season.

Manchester City's Omar Marmoush was signed from Frankfurt in January. He had scored 15 Bundesliga goals in 17 games, along with three Europa League goals. Marmoush was Eintracht's penalty taker.

In the league phase of this competition Eintracht and Spurs both met Ferencvaros and Roma. The German side beat Ferencvaros at home, whereas we lost away. They lost 2-0 away to Claudio Ranieri's Roma, whereas we drew 2-2 at home. Roma lost narrowly (4-3) to Athletic Bilbao in the Round of 16. Bilbao will be hoping to progress all the way to the final, being played in their own stadium. They face Rangers tomorrow night in Glasgow.

We already know that the winners of this tie would meet Bodo/Glimt (of Norway) or Lazio in the semi-final, but this tie against Eintracht Frankfurt is close to call.

Spurs certainly need a far better performance than that they gave in Sunday's second half, but we must assume they were "playing within themselves"! Micky van de Ven should return to partner Romero. Ange told us last weekend that Kevin Danso and Dejan Kulusevski were still two weeks away from a return, so I am assuming the squad for tomorrow will be changed little. Brandon Austin and Alfie Whiteman will be our back-up keepers. Naturally, I am hoping for at least a two-goal lead to take to Frankfurt next week.

Did you know? - When Wilson Odobert scored against AZ last month Spurs became the first side in major European competition history to have five players under the age of 21 (Odobert, Will Lankshear, Damola Ajayi, Mikey Moore, Dane Scarlett) score in the same season.

The 20-year-old winger became the youngest Spurs player to score twice in a major European game since Chris McGrath against Aberdeen in November 1973.

We have a top referee for this game. Szymon Marciniak and his on-field team are from Poland. Mr Marciniak first refereed Spurs in October 2017 when we drew away to Real Madrid. His last Spurs game was our 2-1 away win against Marseille in November 2022. Both games were in the Champions League, of course. Mr. Marciniak refereed Manchester City's 2023 Champions League Final win over Inter Milan.

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Full League Record of Tottenham Hotspur -v- Chelsea

Premier Pl W D L For-Ag Pts Home 33 7 10 16 40- 59 31 Away 32 1 11 20 23- 61 14 =========================================== Total (Prem) 65 8 21 36 63-120 45 0.69 Pts per game =========================================== Football Lge Home (Div 1) 42 20 9 13 79- 57 51 Away (Div 1) 42 19 6 17 63- 50 46 =========================================== Total(Div 1) 84 39 15 30 142-107 97 =========================================== Football Lge Home (Div 2) 2 1 1 0 7- 4 3 Away (Div 2) 2 0 1 1 1- 4 1 =========================================== Total(Div 2) 4 1 2 1 8- 8 4 =========================================== Total (Prem) 65 8 21 36 63-120 45 Total(Div 1) 84 39 15 30 142-107 97 Total(Div 2) 4 1 2 1 8- 8 4 =========================================== Grand Total 153 48 38 67 213-235 146 =========================================== Last Six Premier League results:- Chelsea - WLLWWL Chelsea 2-1 West Ham Brighton 3-0 Chelsea A. Villa 2-1 Chelsea Chelsea 4-0 S'hampton Chelsea 1-0 Leicester Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea Spurs - WWWLDL Brentford 0-2 Spurs Spurs 1-0 Man Utd Ipswich 1-4 Spurs Spurs 0-1 Man City Spurs 2-2 B'mouth Fulham 2-0 Spurs Pos P W D L F-A GD Pts 4. Chelsea 29 14 7 8 53-37 16 49 14. Spurs 29 10 4 15 55-43 12 34

Little hope for Spurs here

Thanks to Eugene Gasper for capturing this image

We Spurs fans have had to wait nearly three weeks for a game of Premier League football. Those travelling to Stamford Bridge for tomorrow night's televised game can have little hope of seeing an away win.

After all, it was seven years ago (almost to the day) on April 1st 2018 - when away fans saw Tottenham's solitary victory in their last 38 matches away to Chelsea in all competitions. We won 3-1 on a day never to be forgotten. Dele Alli scored two goals in the space of four wonderful second half minutes to secure that rare win.

Our points per game record against Chelsea is worse than against any other ever-present Premier League team. They are the only such team against whom we have failed to get into double figures regarding league wins.

Points per game record against ever-present Premier League sides.

P W D L F - A Pts (Per-game) 1. Everton 66 31 25 10 108 - 65 118 1.78 Pts per game 2. Arsenal 66 15 24 27 82 -108 69 1.04 3. Liverpool 65 15 17 33 80 -120 62 0.95 4. Man Utd 66 13 14 39 69 -110 53 0.8 5. Chelsea 65 8 21 36 63 -120 45 0.69

Chelsea are the one remaining existing Premier League side against whom we have failed to achieve a League "double". Spurs have lost nine of their past 12 Premier League clashes with Chelsea, drawing two and winning one. Ange Postecoglou is at risk of becoming the first Spurs manager to lose his first four Premier League games against Chelsea.

Our 4-3 home defeat in December was the first time that Chelsea had trailed by two goals after 11 minutes of a game in the Premier League since a 2-0 loss at Leeds United on 1 December 1996.

Cole Palmer became the first player to score from all of the first 12 penalties he had taken in the Premier League; previously 11 by Yaya Toure of Manchester City.

That home defeat was the seventh of our 15 Premier League defeats of the season. We've lost 8 of the last 14 league games. Chelsea scored four goals in consecutive away games against Tottenham for the first time.

Chelsea are yet to win a trophy under the ownership that took control of the club in 2022. They've spent £1.1bn and made 39 permanent signings during this time. They are however, hot favourites to win the Europa Conference League, which would give them a Europa League place next season. Chelsea are well placed to earn a Champions League place next season, but Opta suggests their most likely finishing position will be sixth, behind both Manchester City and Newcastle.

Even during the March international break Chelsea signed Geovany Quenda (18 this month)and Dario Essugo from Sporting. That's a €74m total package for both players with Quenda to join in summer 2026, and Essugo (already 18) to join in summer 2025.

It's hard for ardent Chelsea fans too keep up with their club's transfer and loan business, let alone a casual observer!

Ange Postecoglou has reported that both Dejan Kulusevski and Kevin Danso are "progressing well". Richarlison is back in training, but I suspect not to be seen tomorrow. All those who left on international duty returned unscathed, including Lucas Bergvall, who missed Sweden's games due to illness.

As always, Spurs will need to be at their best tomorrow (8pm - SKY). Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke are all on course to return from injury. The best I can hope for is a cheeky draw.

Our match referee (for the 35th time) will be Craig Pawson. His last Spurs game was our 4-0 Carabao Cup defeat at Anfield two months ago.

Did you know? (1) - Spurs, and four of the five other ever-present Premier League members (Arsenal, Everton, Liverpool and Manchester United) have never been involved in play-offs. Chelsea are the exception, having been relegated in 1988 after finishing 18th in Division One, before losing 2-1 on aggregate to Division Two Middlesbrough. Chelsea became the first and only club to be relegated from the top tier in the play-offs. Division One clubs were only involved in 1986-87 and 1987-88. Middlesbrough had finished third in Division Two.

Chelsea made an immediate return and won Division Two with 99 points, 17 points above second-placed Manchester City!

Did you know? (2) - Jimmy Greaves, whose career began at Chelsea, topped the English scoring charts no less than 6 times, twice with Chelsea and four times with Spurs. When at Chelsea in our Double season of 1960-61, Jimmy was the last player to score more than 40 top flight goals in a season. His tally was 41, one of which was against Spurs at Stamford Bridge on Easter Monday 1961. Spurs won that game 3-2, having won 4-2 at White Hart Lane on Good Friday.

. Spurs record in recent London Derby League matches

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NORMAN GILLER'S SPURS ODYSSEY BLOG No 507

Submitted by Norman Giller

Am I really typing this? ... Tottenham Hotspur (note the full name) play Manchester City at home on Wednesday seeking a fourth successive Premier League victory and a second hat-trick of wins this season against a Manchester team!

After defeats by Real Madrid in Europe and yesterday's pounding by Liverpool, Manchester City are dangerously wounded animals, so don't expect them to just roll over against Spurs. But the fact that we are even discussing victory over the reigning Premier League champions underlines what a crazy season this is.

It was only recently that the main topic was if Ange Postecoglou could survive another day in his job before the dreaded Daniel Levy axe dropped on him.

Now Tottenham Hotspur - again, note the full name - are looking for a third win of the season over City (to go with the hat-trick against ManU) ... and dreaming of Europa League glory after a last 16 draw paired them with AZ Alkmaar, the Dutch side Spurs beat in the group stages.

Let me repeat the main point in that previous paragraph, because it is quite unique and never achieved before in football history: If Spurs beat Man City on Wednesday they complete a double hat-trick on the two great Manchester clubs in a single season. Well, I'll go to the foot of our stairs, as older Mancunians say.

I must get my feet back on the ground and try to stay balanced with my judgement. But the fact remains that suddenly the Spurs season is being turned on its head.

Of course it could all start to unravel again if goal poacher supreme Erling Haaland is fit to return to lead the City attack on Wednesday. I understand he is going to have a late fitness test to decide whether he starts.

Meantime, Spurs are finding new confidence as their appalling injury list shortens, allowing Ange to put out a squad much nearer to his first choice.

Along with our guru Paul H. Smith we have to accept that Saturday's 4-1 whacking of Ipswich provided a final scoreline that was somewhat flattering.

As Declan Mulcahy reports HERE, the Tractor Boys might easily have had a harvest of goals if the ball had run kindly for them. The fact remains, however, that - with Sonny sparkling and Lucas Bergvall immense - Tottenham Hotspur (full title again) eventually made amends for their shock home defeat by Ipswich earlier in this topsy-turvy season.

All that 'Tottenham Hotspur' business? An official reminder has gone out from the thought police that this is how the team should be referred to by the media, not just plain old Tottenham (you know, that Tottenham that won the Double and were the first club to win a major European trophy).

For those who do not understand the concept of branding, Spurs - sorry, Tottenham Hotspur - need to be recognised far beyond England shores and the club image makers feel just plain old Tottenham no longer meets the needs to be known internationally.

Personally, I don't care what we call them providing they are winners. Come On You Spurs! You know, good old Tottenham Hotspur.

Week 27 of our eleventh season of the Spurs Odyssey Quiz League, and the question is:

Who won 67 England caps, skippered Spurs and which Football League club did he briefly manage?

Please email your answer to me at soqleague@gmail.com and make the subject heading Quiz Week 27. Deadline: midnight this Friday. I will do my best to respond to all who take part.

The rules are the same as in the previous ten seasons. I ask a two-pronged question with three points at stake - two for identifying the player and one for the supplementary question. In the closing weeks of the competition I break the logjam of all-knowing Spurs-history experts with a real stinker of a tie-breaking poser that is based on opinion rather than fact.

This year's main prize will be a framed certificate announcing the winner as SOQL champion 2025, plus three signed books to be revealed at a later date.

Last week's question: Which Scottish international striker played for Tottenham, Manchester United, Coventry and QPR in the 1980s and with which club did he start his career in England?

Answer: Alan Brazil/Ipswich Town.

See you back here on Monday. COYS!

Follow @spursodyssey