Hotspur HQ

So far this weekend, we have already covered how things went for Spurs loanees in the Championship, as well as for George Abbott and Notts County in League Two. Here is a review of how the rest of the weekend went for the current loanees.

Looking at the action for the rest of Tottenham Hotspur's loanees

In League One, there was action for Josh Keeley, Jamie Donley, and their Leyton Orient side – as they looked to build on an impressive win over Wrexham in mid week when they faced Bolton Wanderers – also away from home. As always, both players were in the starting XI. Â

Although they took the lead five minutes before half time, the O’s could not make it a perfect week, conceding two goals without reply in the second half – as they were condemned to a 2-1 defeat. Tough week having two games up North within the space of a few days. Â

Despite the defeat, Orient remain in the play off positions, with 53 points from 32 games – though are now only above Charlton Athletic and their hosts on goal difference.Â

Next up is a very tricky away game against runaway league leaders Birmingham City on Tuesday evening, for a 19:45 GMT kick off. Â

Down in the National League, Luca Gunter started for Wealdstone, as they made it two wins in a week with a 4-2 win at home to Ebbsfleet United. These wins have given the Stones some room to breathe – as they now sit in 18th place, with 35 points from their 32 games – two points above the relegation zone, with superior goal difference. Â

Next up is an away game against Tamworth on Tuesday evening, for a 19:45 GMT kick off.Â

Over in Belgium, Luka Vuskovic started for KVC Westerlo as they hosted Charleroi in the Belgium Pro League, though Alfie Devine was again out with an injury. In the first half, Vuskovic found the back of the net – for his seventh goal in 25 league outings this season – pretty incredible for a central defender. Â

However, despite this goal, Westerlo could not get the job done in the second half, conceding three uninterrupted goals to lose the game 3-1. This defeat leaves them in 13th place – the final relegation round place – with 30 points from their 27 games. Next up is an away game against OH Leuven on Sunday – for an 18:15 GMT kick off. Â

North of the border, Alfie Dorrington was an unused sub for Aberdeen – as they beat Kilmarnock 1-0 at home in the Scottish Premiership. This win has them third in the league, with 41 points from 27 games. Next up is an away game against Celtic on Tuesday evening, for a 20:00 GMT kick off. Â

Finally, Alejo Veliz was an unused sub for RCD Espanyol, as they pulled off a big 1-0 away to Alaves in La Liga. This win leaves them 15th in the league, with 27 points from their 25 games so far. Next up is an away game against Villarreal next Monday night – the third of March, for a 20:00 GMT kick off.Â

Like every position in the game, full-back evolves over the years as demands on players in that role change. There’s been attacking full-backs, defensive full-backs, full-backs that aren’t allowed over the halfway line, overlapping full-backs, and the development of “wing-backs” (I still remember the English media mocking an England manager once for using the term “wing-back” as if he had caused some great national insult). Sometimes, the style of play is associated with teams, eras, or even a decade. I recently was told Aaron Wan-Bissaka was transferred from Man United as he was too much of a “90s-style full-back”. (I’m not sure either. Man United were certainly more successful in the 90s than they are currently.)

Even with so many different iterations of the position, I don’t think I’ve seen a system designed to use them in quite the way that Ange does. There is sometimes the traditional overlap, but also often an underlap and done so in steps that they gradually move infield, often ending up in the central attacking positions. Whatever results Ange’s tactics yield (and this season has been a mix to say the least), I do like that we play on the front foot and do so a little differently to everyone else. We are trying something different.

And there’s few greater differences at the moment than one of own full-backs Djed Spence’s situation at Spurs. Spence’s start at Spurs hasn’t been smooth. A young player, signed in 2022 after impressing in the Championship for Nottingham Forest, Spence signed a long-term contract and good things were expected. The transfer seemed to have taken forever, which at least gave the impression of how much he must have been wanted by the management at the time. Then we barely saw him. A few very rare appearances for Spurs and 3 loans (Rennes, Leeds, Genoa) were quickly followed up by rumors of management never wanting the transfer and problems in training. It looked like a disappointing end might be in the future.

Fast forward to the most recent few months and Spence has arguably been our best player. He’s played much of that time on his opposite side at left-back but still impressed. He’s defending well but looking very comfortable on the ball, willing to take players on, dribbling past opponents. Full-back play like that has often been missing this season vs. last and it’s been noticeable in our overall performances. In some of our poorer games this season (thinking particularly league cup semi-final at Anfield), he’s even been our best attacking threat as well. It was interesting in the win at Ipswich this weekend, Spence again started at right back. A fair decision on recent form.

Now while Ange, as a manager who places a high degree of importance on the full-backs, should of course take some credit, it should also be remembered that Ange himself seemed reluctant to play Spence earlier this season. He chose not to even register him in the original Europa League squad.

In a season of many lows so far, it’s good to have found a high. And now Europa League gives us an opportunity for an amazing turnaround. And Djed’s been added to that Europa squad now. Who says Ange isn’t flexible?

In the Championship this past weekend, there were three games for Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Ashley Phillips and his Stoke City side were in action away to Norwich City – just down the road from where Spurs were playing – Yang Min-hyeok and QPR were in action away to Portsmouth, whilst Will Lankshear and West Bromwich Albion hosted Oxford United. Â

To begin, Phillips was named in Mark Robins starting XI for the trip to Carrow Road. However, he could not prevent his side from losing 4-2, in a disappointing afternoon. The young defender made five clearances during the 90 minutes – which took his league total minutes to 1912 for the season – good experience all the same. Â

This defeat leaves the Potters sitting in 19th place in the Championship, with 35 points from 33 games. They remain five points clear of the drop – whilst having a game in hand. Â

Meanwhile, despite starting and assisting against Derby County last week, Yang Min-hyeok was on the bench for showdown at Fratton Park. Midway through the second half, he came on as a sub with the R’s 2-0 down, and they got one back five minutes later, but could not find an equaliser, and left empty handed. The South Korean created two chances and one big chance, whilst winning all three of his ground duels.Â

This defeat leaves QPR in 14th place in the Championship, with 44 points from their 34 games to date. Â

Finally, Lankshear was named amongst the substitutes by Tony Mowbray for the visit of Oxford. It would prove to be a comfortable afternoon for the Baggies, winning 2-0 and being on top for the entirety of the game. As for Lanskhear himself, he played the final 13 minutes of the game, replacing Adam Armstrong. Â

This victory leaves West Brom in fifth place in the Championship, with 51 points from their 34 games so far, as they remain in the play off positions.

Next up for Stoke is a home game against Watford. Meanwhile, QPR are in action at home to Sheffield United – with both games kicking off at 15:00 GMT. Meanwhile, West Brom are in action away to Leeds United at 12:30 GMT, with the game live on Sky Sports red button for those in the UK. With Sheffield United and Leeds both being in the top two, both games will have plenty of repercussions. Â

Continuing with transfer news, Tottenham appear ready to make a big move for a rising star.

As we edge closer to the summer transfer window, speculation over potential signings continues to flood the club.

Spurs have been linked with numerous players in recent weeks, including two young talents, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Tyler Dibling.

They have also been keeping tabs on a midfielder they have been monitoring for some time, Angel Gomes.

However, fresh reports suggest that Tottenham have now set their sights on Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios as their next target.

Tottenham set their sights on midfielder Pablo Barrios

According to Fichajes, Spurs are prepared to make a 'large investment' to bring the Spanish midfielder to N17.

Furthermore, the report claims that Tottenham are leading the race, having shown the strongest interest in the 21-year-old.

It is said that the North London club are willing to submit a €75m (£62m) offer for Barrios.

Tottenham’s midfield is already well-stocked with top talents such as Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison, the latter having recently scored the winner against Manchester United.

However, the midfield has not been spared from the injury crisis plaguing the squad, and setbacks to players like Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma may push the club and Ange Postecoglou to consider a signing like Barrios.

A potential arrival at Tottenham could be on the horizon

Despite his young age, Pablo Barrios has emerged as a key figure for Atletico Madrid in recent months, proving himself among more seasoned players.

We know that Tottenham welcome young talents with open arms—though some may question the approach—so a move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium would not be surprising.

Additionally, the report suggests that Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is an admirer of Barrios, but a €75m offer could be difficult to refuse.

That said, there are also rumours that Atletico are preparing a contract renewal for Barrios in response to Tottenham’s interest.

It is certainly an intriguing situation for 'Los Colchoneros', as a sale could help their financial position, but it remains to be seen how this transfer saga will unfold.

With the summer transfer window approaching in a few months, Tottenham have already begun weighing up their options.

Having endured a season of highs and lows, the club’s spirit has not been completely dampened, and they are now determined to bring in fresh talent.

Recently, we reported that Tottenham had shown interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. However, they are not the only ones in the race, as Chelsea are also leading the competition for the player.

At the same time, strong rumours suggest Spurs are eyeing a Premier League star with a £60 million release clause—Eberechi Eze—who also plays for Crystal Palace.

Now, attention has shifted towards two other players: a midfielder and a forward.

Tottenham keeping a close eye on Jamie Gittens and Tyler Dibling

On Friday, GIVEMESPORT reported that Tottenham are keen on signing two young talents, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Tyler Dibling.

According to the outlet, this is part of a new transfer strategy.

Spurs’ interest in Tyler Dibling is not new, as we previously mentioned that reports suggest Tottenham are in advanced talks with Southampton over a potential deal for the youngster.

The proposed structure would see the 19-year-old join on an initial loan with an obligation to buy, allowing Spurs to defer the hefty £50 million asking price until the summer.

However, securing his signing is far from certain, as Newcastle are also closely monitoring him.

As for Jamie Gittens, the 20-year-old forward is reportedly the more challenging target.

According to various reports, the club anticipates a tough battle to land him, especially considering that during the last transfer window, Dortmund were demanding £83 million for his services.

Spurs have no fear when it comes to investing in young talent

Will Spurs manage to sign these promising young talents? Tottenham are well known for their willingness to invest in young prospects.

A prime example is Archie Gray, a versatile 18-year-old who has been making headlines among both the media and fans, along with the club’s recent signing, Mathys Tel.

So far this season, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens has registered 11 goals and 3 assists, while Tyler Dibling has scored 2 goals and provided 2 assists, earning a reputation for creating excellent goalscoring opportunities.

We will have to wait and see how things unfold for these two players in the upcoming transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur and their players can breathe easy—at least until the next match.

Although Micky van de Ven has been sidelined since November, the Dutchman remains on the minds of fans wondering when he will return to action.

But before diving into Van de Ven’s situation, let’s take a look at the latest news surrounding the club.

On Saturday, Tottenham faced Ipswich in a Premier League fixture, securing a dominant 4-1 victory, with Brennan Johnson stealing the spotlight.

Speaking of standout performances, Spurs captain Heung-Min Son received high praise from the media and manager Ange Postecoglou, who described him as 'unplayable.'

Now, turning back to van de Ven, a biomechanics expert has given his opinion on the defender’s situation.

Dr Ben Rosenblatt reveals possible reasons behind the Dutchman’s injury struggles

According to a report from The Athletic, Dr. Ben Rosenblatt, founder of 292 Performance (a company providing high-performance support for elite athletes), explained that while an athlete’s running style can be changed, making it a permanent adjustment could take a long time and might even come with risks.

Speaking to the outlet, Rosenblatt said: "Every athlete has a unique way that they move and that is across jumping, kicking a ball, sprinting and landing. Some tasks leave an athlete more vulnerable to injury.

"The biggest risk is that you’re trying to change something which doesn’t need to be changed," Dr Rosenblatt explained. "We invested a huge amount of energy and effort so you have to consider the cost benefit.

"Moving more efficiently is always going to be good but the amount of time, effort and energy it takes is always demanding."

Micky van de Ven still not ready to return to the pitch

Micky van de Ven has faced challenges on the pitch.

The defender possesses remarkable physical attributes, but not every player can match his acceleration and top speed.

Because of this, as cited by various reports, his explosive pace could be a key factor in why the Dutchman has suffered hamstring injuries so early in his career.

As reported by Football London, manager Ange Postecoglou recently stated that Tottenham are looking into van de Ven's 'mechanics' to improve them and reduce the risk of future injuries.

The Dutchman is still not ready to return, as the manager mentioned a few weeks ago. Micky got through 45 minutes of a training session, but he feels he’s not yet ready to take the step up to the Premier League.

For now, Spurs can enjoy their two recent victories, welcome back some returning players from injury, and start preparing for their next big test—Wednesday’s clash against Manchester City.

On Saturday afternoon, Spurs faced Ipswich Town at Portman Road, for game week 26 of the Premier League season. It was the club's first Saturday 15:00 GMT kick off since the 21st of September, at home to Brentford.

For the task at hand, Ange opted with a line up of; Vicario; Spence, Danso, Gray, Udogie; Kulusevski, Bentancur, Bergvall; Johnson, Tel, Son.

How things went when Tottenham Hotspur faced Ipswich Town on the road

After just a minute, Ipswich had a presentable opportunity, with the ball falling to Liam Delap but fortunately for Ange's side - Vicario made a top save. Two minutes later, he struck off target from inside the box when well placed.

After 18 minutes, a ball from Gray set Son away down the left. Good work from the skipper created some space on the outside — before drilling a ball across the six yard box, that was tapped home by Johnson. That instinct was missed a lot when he was injured.Â

Then, eight minutes later, Johnson and Spurs had two. This time, a Bentancur through ball set Son away, who looked up and squared the ball across for the Welshman, who finished with a left footed effort.Â

However, with nine minutes of the first half remaining, Omari Hutchinson got one back for the hosts — with Jack Clarke, of course, teeing him up. The sides would go into the break with Spurs 2-1 up.

Around twenty minutes into the second half — Ange made a double change, with Porro and Maddison replacing Udogie and Johnson. Ten minutes later, Scarlett and Odober replaced Tel and Son.

Three minutes after that, Spurs had a third. Neat footwork from Maddison resulted in a lay off for Spence, whose deflected effort from just inside the box found the back of the net.

Then, with just over five minutes remaining, Kulusevski found space down the right, before cutting inside and firing an effort into the far corner. Superb effort from a superb player. Soon after, Bissouma replaced Bergvall.

That would be that, and Spurs would record three consecutive Premier League wins for the first time this campaign.

Later on this afternoon, Tottenham Hotspur will be taking to the field in East Anglia, as they take on newly promoted Ipswich Town at Portman Road, for match day 26 of the current Premier League season.

How both teams line up at Portman Road in the Premier League this afternoon

For the task at hand, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou has opted for a line up of; Vicario; Spence, Danso, Gray, Udogie; Kulusevski, Bentancur, Bergvall; Johnson, Tel, Son.

Meanwhile, the bench consists of; Kinsky, Porro, Reguilon, Bissouma, Sarr, Maddison, Moore, Odobert, Scarlett.

Fans, including us, have been hoping to see a full back pairing of Spence and Udogie at some point. It is clear that Porro has been overplayed, and is in need of some rest. We have seen how good Spence has been out of position, so you would hope he will really be able to thrive in his actual position here.

It's also exciting to see a front three of Johnson, Tel, and Son - with Kulusevski creating for them behind. Just got to hope that there will be enough space for them to thrive. If not, the Sweden international will certainly be tasked with trying to pierce Ipswich open.

Having Odobert and Moore on the bench feels like really good depth too, as well as Scarlett, whom has scored in Europe this season. All of a sudden the squad is beginning to look good again. Feels harsh on Maddison, given his goal and performance last week - but perhaps it is just to manage his minutes after returning from an injury.

Meanwhile, Kieran McKenna has opted for a line up of; Palmer; Godfrey, O'Shea, Greaves, Davis; Phillips, Cajuste; Philogene, Hutchinson, Clarke, Delap.

Whilst the bench contains; Muric, Woolfenden, Townsend, Johson, Morsy, Taylor, Szmodics, Broadhead, and Hirst.

Fans will remember Spurs signing Clarke back in the summer of 2019 from Leeds United, though he was sold to Sunderland in the summer of 2022, having never made a first team appearance for the club. So we all know what is happening today.

Meanwhile, Spurs linked Delap leads the line. He scored in the reverse fixture back in November - whilst other goalscorer Szmodics, is fit enough for the bench, having missed their previous game with an injury.

This is a big opportunity for Spurs to make it three wins in a row, for the first time in the Premier League this season. Let's not have another "Spursy" game like in the humiliating reverse fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

If there’s one thing Tottenham can be proud of, it’s their young stars, who continue to prove their importance to the team.

Despite their age, Spurs’ youngsters stand out thanks to the opportunities and trust given to them by manager Ange Postecoglou.

One such player is Archie Gray, who has earned Postecoglou’s confidence due to his versatility.

Another example is Yang Min-Hyeok, the South Korean currently on loan at QPR and, among the many young talents shining in Postecoglou’s squad is Swedish midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

Lucas Bergvall has earned the full trust of Ange Postecoglou

Speaking ahead of Tottenham’s match against Ipswich tomorrow, the manager revealed that he had considered sending Lucas Bergvall out on loan but ultimately decided against it.

When asked if he trusted young players like Gray and Bergvall, he told Football London:

"Yeah, I’m not sure about trust. I mean, I really thought that guys like Lucas and Archie could definitely contribute.

"That’s why we kept them. We made a decision because there was an option, particularly with Lucas, to loan him out, and I really felt working through pre-season that Archie and Lucas could definitely contribute to us.”

The manager also spoke about another one of his young players, Djed Spence: "I think with Djed, it was just we wanted to give Jed every opportunity and, you know, we knew that certainly there was a player there, but a lot of it had to be up to Djed himself."

The big decision to keep him rather than send him on loan

It’s clear that Ange Postecoglou has placed his full confidence in Lucas Bergvall, and the decision has paid off.

With senior players sidelined due to injury, the younger talents have stepped up and taken on key roles in the squad.

But once the injured players return, will they be pushed aside or finally sent out on loan to gain experience elsewhere?

This season, Lucas Bergvall has made 33 appearances, contributing 1 goal and 2 assists across all competitions.

For now, Tottenham Hotspur must continue fighting to climb the Premier League table. They currently sit 12th, while their opponents tomorrow, Ipswich, are down in 18th.

The talent of Tottenham’s players will never go unnoticed.

The Spurs are increasingly recognised for integrating young rising stars into their squad, particularly into the first team.

Clear examples are the club’s newest additions, such as Mason Melia and Mathys Tel, who agreed to join due to the opportunities given to young players.

Another prime example of a young star is Lucas Bergvall, the Swedish midfielder who plays as a central midfielder or pivot for Tottenham and has long been praised by analysts.

And, without a doubt, we cannot forget the fan-favourite young star, Archie Gray.

Ange Postecoglou clarifies Archie Gray’s role

Archie Gray is an 18-year-old who previously played for Leeds United and is now at Tottenham and, since joining the club, Gray has played several matches as a makeshift defender for Spurs.

Due to injuries suffered by key centre-backs like Cristian Romero, the team’s manager has been forced to experiment, placing the young player in different roles.

Ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League match against Ipswich, manager Ange Postecoglou addressed the question on everyone’s mind—will we see Archie Gray in midfield?

Speaking to Football London, the Australian coach said: "The way it's going, never, mate. You know, I was tempted to put him in goal because we were down a fifth goalkeeper.

"I think the experience he's had this year is going to be outstanding for him and outstanding for us," Postecoglou explained.

"He's taken on every challenge we've thrown at him, not flustered, got on with it, performed at a really good level, contributed to the team all as an 18-year-old in his first year in the Premier League."

Injured players return to ease the pressure on others

For now, it doesn’t seem like the manager is in a rush to push Archie Gray into such a demanding role without first giving the young Englishman time to refine his skills and technique.

Let’s not forget that, albeit gradually, injured players are returning to the pitch.

We recently reported that Cristian Romero is still recovering from his quadriceps injury. Since it’s a tricky injury, he needs to take his time to fully heal.

However, he is expected to return to the squad soon, easing the pressure on Gray.

We’ll see how the 18-year-old contributes in tomorrow’s match, and we'll continue to trust that he will make an even greater impact in games, playing with the same confidence that defines him.