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On Saturday afternoon, for the final weekend of fixtures before Christmas, there was the usual Championship slate. There were games for Spurs loanees and their sides - Dane Scarlett’s Oxford United, who were playing their first game in the post Des Buckingham era, as well as for Ashley Phillips’ Stoke City side.

How everything happened in the final games before Christmas

For Oxford, it could not have really been much of a harder game, as they travelled to West Yorkshire to play Leeds United at Elland Road. New manager Gary Rowett was in the stands for this one, as he takes his first game on Boxing Day.

For this game, interim manager Craig Short started with Scarlett on the substitutes bench, as he went with Wales international Mark Harris instead. The reality is, it was always going to be a long day chasing shadows for whoever got the nod up front, as the U’s were completely dominated all game, and condemned to a tough 4-0 defeat.

As for Scarlett himself, he played the final twelve minutes of the game, replacing Harris, when Leeds were already four goals to the good. Former Tottenham Hotspur central defender Joe Rodon played 90 minutes at centre-back for the hosts.

This defeat has left Oxford in the relegation zone for the first time this season, as they sit in 23rd place, with 18 points from their 21 games to date. They are only one point below Hull City in 21st, having played a game fewer, although the same can be said for Cardiff City in 22nd.

Elsewhere, for the first time since the 22nd of October, Phillips was not named in Stoke’s starting XI – ending a run of eleven consecutive games in the side, as they travelled to South Yorkshire to face Sheffield Wednesday. This was despite manager Narcis Pelach moving to a three at the back formation.

It would be a tough afternoon for Stoke in his absence. Four minutes before the break, Wednesday had a man sent off for two bookable offences, as the sides went into half-time 0-0. However, the Potters could not make the man advantage count, in fact quite the opposite, and 10 man Wednesday would score twice to secure a 2-0 win.

This makes it eight games in a row without a win for Phillips’ side, with just four points in that time. They now find themselves in 19th place in the Championship, with 22 points from 22 games, having played more games than four of the five teams below them.

Next up for Oxford is a big game at home to Cardiff, whilst Stoke now have Leeds themselves – albeit at home. Both games are on boxing day – with Scarlett’s side kicking off at 15:00 GMT, and Phillips’ side at 20:00 GMT.

Tottenham Hotspur’s journey under Ange Postecoglou has been a topic of much discussion this season.

The Australian’s arrival was met with optimism, but after a mixed bag of results, there’s already speculation about his future at the club.

Although Postecoglou has shown potential, the pressure to deliver results in the Premier League is intense, and many fans are wondering how long the club will stick with him.

With Spurs still struggling to find consistent form, whispers are growing about potential replacements.

There’s speculation that Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham could be shorter than expected, and if that’s the case, the big question is who might step in to take over at N17.

Recent reports suggest that one name has emerged as a possible candidate, someone whose managerial style has garnered respect across the Premier League.

Tottenham linked with Brentford boss Thomas Frank

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has earned praise for his smart tactics and knack for getting the best out of his players.

According to TEAMTalk, Tottenham’s hierarchy is keeping an eye on the Danish coach, with some even claiming that the club had previously explored the idea of bringing him in.

Frank’s stock has been rising, particularly after his success in keeping Brentford competitive in the Premier League, and it seems that Spurs are keen to see what he could achieve with a higher calibre of players.

Former Liverpool midfielder Jan Molby has weighed in on the conversation, strongly backing Frank as the ideal candidate for Tottenham.

Molby, who shares a nationality with Frank, believes that the 50-year-old could get the best out of Spurs' underperforming attackers.

"I no longer have any doubts, he is the right man for Tottenham. The squad they have suits Thomas Frank 100%. “Look at the players and the way Thomas Frank plays. I think it’s perfect."

"All the offensive quality he has at Brentford, he gets a lot out of it. At Tottenham, he will have even better attacking qualities if he gets there so try to think what he can get out of those boys. I would go so far as to say that even Timo Werner would be able to get going again."

Molby went further, suggesting that even players who have struggled to find form at Spurs in recent years, such as Timo Werner, could see their careers rejuvenated under Frank’s guidance.

Postecoglou’s future still secure for now

While the debate around Frank’s potential appointment continues, it’s important to note that Tottenham’s current stance on Postecoglou appears unwavering.

Leading football journalist David Ornstein recently reported that sources within the club have made it clear that there is no intention to part ways with Postecoglou.

Tottenham see him as the long-term solution and remain committed to the Australian’s project, believing he is the right man to challenge for silverware in the future.

It’s clear that, despite the rumblings of potential managerial changes, Postecoglou’s position is secure for the time being.

It is getting to that time of the year where many links start appearing ahead of the January transfer window, both outgoings and incomings. We have already seen many players linked to Spurs over the last couple of weeks. Players like John Victor from Botafogo, as well as Milan Skriniar from PSG.

We have also seen players linked with a move away from the club, such as a return back to Fluminense for Richarlison. That said, we can probably, and hopefully, expect more outs than in this window.

Another player that has already been linked is David Hancko from Feyenoord. However he is not the only player from the Rotterdam club to be mentioned in the same sentence as Spurs. According to reports, versatile Dutch international Quinten Timber has been “attracting interest” from Tottenham.

Spurs linked with versatile player from the Netherlands

The 23-year old is an extremely versatile player. Per transfermarkt, he has played; 144 games as a central midfielder, 38 as a defensive midfielder, 28 as an attacking midfielder, 12 as a left winger, 12 as a right-back, 10 as a centre-back, and eight as a right-winger.

The cynics reading may think “jack of all trades, master of none”, but this extreme versatility can surely only be done by very talented players. Furthermore, despite playing in a number of positions, it is clear he has been good enough to lock one down – not doing so often being a criticism of versatile players.

This type of player could be so, so useful for Spurs. For any team, but especially here. He would be able to add quality into the midfield, but also add genuine depth in other positions. We have seen the injury crisis at centre half, or how shattered Pedro Porro looks at right-back. This would be killing several birds with one stone.

Having made his debut earlier in the year, Timber has made five appearances for the Netherlands senior team, and played with Micky van de Ven at U21 level – with the two players separated by only two months.

One player separated by even less time is Timber’s twin brother, Jurrien, who most of you will be aware is already pitched up in North London. This potential deal would certainly make for even more interesting North London derbies. In fairness, living with, or near his twin brother could make a move to Spurs very appealing.

The injury issues that Tottenham Hotspur have, particularly in central defence, are pretty well documented by now. First choice pairing Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are both currently injured, and will be for a while. Third choice Ben Davies is also out, though should be back sooner.

As good as Romero and van de Ven are, it is not a case of saying “well they’ll be back at some point”. They are two players with longstanding injury issues, and Spurs must sign adequate cover.

Club looking at versatile defender from Eredivise giants

According to a report from TBR Football, they are looking to do just that— as they show interest in David Hancko of Feyenoord. The report further says he is “one of several centre-backs who Spurs are interested in signing”, and that they are “keen to find” a left sided back up for van de Ven.

It is interesting that they say that, given Davies feels like he has been more reliable stepping in than Radu Dragusin, who has covered the right side. The current injury for the Welshman is an anomaly for his career so far.

Nevertheless, Hancko is a solid player, and would be a good addition. In addition to being good cover as the left sided centre back, the Slovakia international also has experience at left back, and could help give Destiny Udogie some more rest.

Just in the last week, the defender played, and scored, as a central defender in an Eredivise game against Heracles — before playing at left-back, and assisting, in a cup game against MVV Maastricht.

Back in 2022, Hancko joined the Dutch giants from Sparta Praha, and helped them to the Eredivise title in his first season under Arne Slot. In the 23/24 season, Feyenoord actually got two more points than their title winning season, but PSV’s historic year meant they had to settle for second place.

Funnily enough, the recently turned 27-year old is not the only Slovakian to be linked to the club, with Milan Skriniar of Paris Saint Germain also mentioned as a potential target— more than four years since it looked like he could have been heading to N17 during lockdown.

Regardless of what happens, it does seem like the club are ready to be active in the January transfer window, thank goodness. This sort of transfer could have been made in the summer, but better late than never as they say.

According to recent reports from Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, Tottenham Hotspur are interested in Paris Saint Germain defender Milan Skriniar, and are a “leading candidate” to sign him.

Spurs linked with a move for 29 year old central defender

Fans may remember the transfer saga with Skriniar, then at Inter Milan, back in 2020. At the time, the defender was out of the starting XI at Inter, and they were willing to listen to offers. Spurs signed Joe Rodon from Swansea instead, whilst Skriniar made his way back into the team, and helped win the 20/21 Serie A title.Â

The Slovakian international swapped Milan for Paris in the summer of 2023, as he joined PSG on a free transfer. However, he started just 17 Ligue 1 games last time out, and has only totalled 381 minutes in the league so far this season. Furthermore, he has been an unused sub for all six of their Champions League games.Â

Last summer, Skriniar was linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, but a deal could not be agreed, and they moved to sign a defender from elsewhere. However, with his game time deteriorating even further, he could look to move this window.Â

When linked in 2020, the now 29-year old would have been a good signing — a great box defender, he would have been great for the style of play under Jose Mourinho, with his role being a lot more simplified.Â

However, the defender was not the quickest then, and he certainly isn’t now. In an Ange side, where he will be playing on the half way line, this feels very similar to Radu Dragusin. Fine defenders, but not suited to playing in a high line.Â

The reason he had lost his place in the Inter side, thus allowing negotiations with Spurs, was because Antonio Conte was not sure on his channel defending as a right sided centre back. Imagine what it would be like under Ange.Â

Furthermore, with the defender turning 30 in February, he doesn’t really fit the age profile that Spurs have used to recruit since Ange Postecoglu took charge.

Elsewhere, Skriniar has also been linked with a move to Turkish Super Lig side, where he could potentially partner former Spurs central defender, Davinson Sanchez.

Let’s wait and see if anything more comes of these links, but it does feel like a bit of a strange fit.

Ange Postecoglou has told the tale of Yang Min-hyeok's first few days in North London, ahead of his upcoming Tottenham transfer in January.

Ange Postecoglou has established his imprint on Tottenham Hotspur. The Aussie boss has taken it slow since he arrived in the 2023 summer but in hindsight, Tottenham look like a different club now.

The former Celtic boss Postecoglou was always known to be a manager who placed an emphasis on his own philosophy and his own way of doing things. In many ways, this is what Spurs needed to move them on from their many years of mediocrity before his arrival.

Now, Ange Postecoglou has revealed a tactic he's been using to integrate a new Tottenham transfer.

Ange Postecoglou officially comments on incoming Tottenham transfer

Yang Min-hyeok has already been signed by Ange Postecoglou. However, his transfer to Tottenham cannot be officially registered until January 1st. Still, that's not stopped Ange from integrating the new signing into his new home in North London.

In his most recent press conference, Ange Postecoglou confirmed that Yang Min-hyeok has been in and around the Tottenham building over the last few days to familiarise himself with his new surroundings. He also claimed he was excited about joining when the January transfer window opens.

In his own words, Ange said: "Yeah he has been in the building the last couple of days sort of having a good look around. Obviously we can't register him until January 1st so he won't train with us but I always feel it's good."

Bringing in new signings early doors is a common practice of Ange Postecoglou. In fact, he used this method a lot when he managed at Celtic, particularly with those signings who comitted to changing continents.

Ange Postecoglou himself moved continents for the sake of his career. Therefore, he understands the big transition period required to settle into a new life. If he can do anything to help the players comitted to playing under him, he will. This shows a great level of personalised management.

Continuing, Postecoglou said: "I had this experience at Celtic with the Asian lads we brought in, the Japanese and Korean boys, bringing them in before Christmas which allows them to settle in, especially off the field. That way by the time we get to register them in a couple of weeks they are already settled and can train fully."

Finally, Postecoglou confirmed that Yang Min-hyeok was taking lessons to improve his English comprehension. In a short space of time, he is already making progress with conversing at Tottenham - Impressive news!

Postecoglou finished: "It's good to see him around. He has been doing some English lessons which is great, he's already sort of conversing and it's great to have him in the building."

We cannot wait to welcome Yang Min-hyeok officially to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

In the last day or so, per a report from Brazilian media outlet UOL, who have also reported Fluminense’s interest in Richarlison, Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor Maciel Furtrado has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.

The career of Tottenham linked goalkeeper John from Brazil

The goalkeeper, mononymously known as John, is 28-years old, and helped Botafogo to their historic double in the 2024 season, as they won both the Brasileiro Série A, and the Conmebol Libertadores. The latter was the first time they had ever won the competition. The South American football schedule runs on a calendar year basis, so it is currently the off season over there.

There is no rest for the wicked, however. Botafogo played their final game of the year on the 11th of December, and will play their first game of the 2025 calendar on the 11th January. Exactly a month between, and that does not include pre-season preparations. An absolutely mental schedule.

During this successful season, John more than played his part, as he featured in 34/38 league games, and in 10 of their 13 Conmebol Liberdatores games. In the final, Botafogo were reduced to ten men within the first minute of the game, but eventually won the game 3-1, with John making three saves to ensure they got over the line.

Something to note is that, despite being 28 years of age, John has only played 122 games in his entire career. It should be caveated that goalkeepers do start their careers later, and often do not hit their peak until their 30’s. Still, this does seem a bit odd – particularly as he has played almost all of his career in Brazil, where as touched on above, they do play an absolutely obscene amount of games.

Nevertheless, without knowing much about his career, it would be unfair to judge him on that. The goalkeeper has a contract with the Brazilian side until the summer of 2027 (despite their season ending in December), and with the discrepancy between South American football and European football, he could be attainable for a reasonable fee.

Tottenham Hotspur are facing another defensive headache ahead of their crucial League Cup quarter-final clash against Manchester United.

The club's Dutch centre-back, Micky van de Ven, remains a major doubt for the match due to a reoccurrence of his hamstring injury, according to The Standard.

This setback has left Spurs fans on edge, as they look to secure a place in the next round of the competition.

Van de Ven had only just returned to action following a lengthy spell on the sidelines after picking up the same hamstring issue in late October.

Unfortunately, he was forced to leave the pitch late in Tottenham’s recent 4-3 defeat to Chelsea, with the injury flaring up once again.

Micky van de Ven's absence raises doubts

While manager Ange Postecoglou initially downplayed the seriousness of the injury, Van de Ven’s absence in Spurs’ following matches against Rangers and Southampton has raised further concerns.

The club is yet to confirm whether the 23-year-old will be fit for Thursday's match, but he will undergo further assessments before the game.

With Tottenham already missing key players, Van de Ven’s fitness is becoming increasingly vital for the team’s defensive stability.

His pace, composure on the ball, and ability to organise the backline have been sorely missed in his absence, particularly with another key defender, Cristian Romero, also sidelined.

This season has already seen Van de Ven miss 13 games across three separate injury spells, including his initial hamstring injury that kept him out for eight matches.

The Importance of Micky van de Ven to Tottenham

While Spurs have had to adapt without him, his influence on the pitch is undeniable. Tottenham fans will no doubt remember his crucial role in the 3-0 win over Manchester United earlier this season.

Van de Ven played a key part in the victory, making a stunning run from defence, powering through United’s midfield and defence before laying on a perfect assist for Brennan Johnson’s opening goal.

With the League Cup quarter-final against United just around the corner, Spurs are hoping Van de Ven can recover in time to add some much-needed stability to their defence.

If he’s unavailable, it will be yet another challenge for Postecoglou and his squad, who will need to dig deep and find a solution to cope without one of their most influential defenders.

With the competition heating up, every player will need to step up to the plate.

Tottenham Hotspur’s season has been a mix of highs and lows, with their forward line facing more challenges than anticipated.

Injuries and inconsistent performances have left the team short on options up front, prompting manager Ange Postecoglou to shift focus to January’s transfer window.

With the likes of Wilson Odbert and Richarlison sidelined, and Mikey Moore still recovering from an illness, Spurs have found themselves in need of a reliable solution in attack.

Son Heung-Min, the club’s captain, has also faced difficulties this season, particularly when leading the line. While Timo Werner remains an important figure, his consistency has been questioned, further highlighting the need for reinforcements.

With the Premier League’s competitive nature showing no sign of easing, it’s clear that Tottenham need to bolster their attacking options if they are to stay competitive in the upper echelons of the table.

Ange Postecoglou is reportedly keen to sign a versatile forward, someone who can contribute on either wing or through the middle.

Tottenham have a list of wingers in mind to strengthen their squad

Tottenham’s scouting network has been active across Europe, identifying a number of promising candidates to bolster their squad in January.

At the top of the list are players who can operate across multiple attacking positions, ensuring flexibility for Postecoglou’s tactical plans.

Currently, the club is keeping tabs on a handful of players, according to GiveMeSport. One of the names under consideration is Andreas Skov Olsen, a winger from Belgian side Club Brugge.

Known for his versatility and ability to play on either flank, Skov Olsen could provide the tactical flexibility Postecoglou craves in his squad.

Another player on Tottenham’s radar is Dario Osorio, a creative midfielder from Denmark's Midtjylland.

Osorio's ability to operate in attacking positions and his dribbling skills make him an interesting prospect for Spurs, as Postecoglou is keen on strengthening the options available in wide areas.

Tottenham are also keeping an eye on Rayan Cherki, a highly-talented forward from Lyon.

Cherki, known for his flair and ability to take on defenders, would add much-needed creativity and unpredictability to Spurs' attack. His skill set makes him an ideal candidate for a wide-forward role.

The need for a reliable backup striker is also pressing, particularly with Richarlison’s injury woes. Son’s struggles when playing centrally have only emphasised the necessity of strengthening this area.

Tottenham's ideal signing - Versatility and value

Spurs are after a player who can bring some versatility to the table. Whether it’s out wide or through the middle, the ideal signing would give Postecoglou the flexibility he’s after for his tactics.

Tottenham’s recent transfer strategy seems to favour players who can offer a range of options, rather than just specialising in one position.

This approach is set to continue as they look to strengthen their squad without splashing out too much.

Although Tottenham’s transfer targets are still being assessed, it’s clear their main focus will be on finding an attacker who brings both quality and versatility.

This will not only address the club’s current needs but also set them up for success in the near future.

Tottenham Hotspur are still waiting to secure minority investment as the club continues to look for a potential buyer for a 25% stake.

While various parties, including Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners, Liberty Media, and MSP Sports Capital, have shown interest, none of these discussions have yet advanced into a confirmed deal.

In recent months, Spurs fans have been particularly hopeful of a takeover involving Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Qatari billionaire who previously failed to acquire Manchester United for £5 billion.

Sheikh Jassim not interested in investing in Tottenham

Following his defeat in that pursuit, many speculated that Sheikh Jassim might turn his attention to Tottenham. However, fresh reports now reveal that his interest in Spurs may not be as immediate as once thought.

A source close to Sheikh Jassim has explained why he is unlikely to make a move for Tottenham in the near future.

According to an anonymous advisor, Jassim is still a Manchester United fan and isn’t rushing to invest in another Premier League club.

Speaking to The Daily Mail he said: "He (Jassim) is still a United fan. He is not going to rush off and try another Premier League club.

“If the opportunity to buy the whole of Manchester United arose again at some point in the future it is hard to see there not being a big level of interest. The plans are still there.”

This has dampened hopes for a Qatari investment in Tottenham, which had seemed like an exciting prospect for Spurs supporters.

The best investment option for Tottenham

As it stands, the most likely candidate to secure a stake in the club appears to be Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners.

Staveley, who previously co-owned Newcastle, confirmed just a few days ago that her group is actively exploring investment opportunities in the Premier League and even suggested that an announcement could be made soon.

Also, there is growing frustration due to the lack of clear progress on the investment front, as the club seeks both financial stability and a stronger competitive edge.

Tottenham’s search for investment is far from over, and the delay in securing any deal leaves the club in a holding pattern.

For now, Spurs must prepare mentally and physically for Thursday's match after their 5-0 victory over Southampton FC last Sunday, where key moments played a crucial role in securing the win.