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Tottenham Hotspur hadn't won at their home stadium since the Aston Villa clash in November last year, but better late than ever, the streak is finally over. With a 1-nil win over Manchester United, Spurs will march home with an essential and so-needed victory to try to turn the season around. This was Spurs' third win against Man United in this campaign, a "season sweep."

To shut his critics, including some former United players, James Maddison made his comeback to the starting XI and scored a great goal on Onana's rebound to a Lucas Bergvall shot. The Spurs also played like the good old Ange-Ball, a style the Australian is so proud of, but it seemed to have forgotten in the past few weeks.

Whether it was due to injury concerns or not, Tottenham Hotspur's attacking football is back again, and hopefully, the win will return as long as Ange has more bodies to work with as he did this afternoon. Here are the Spurs' player ratings from the 1-nil win Premier League win over Man United:

Later on this afternoon, for the final Premier League game of the weekend, Spurs will host Manchester United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with both sides in terrible form, and in desperate need of all three points.Â

It is the third meeting between the two clubs this season, with Spurs having won the reverse fixture at Old Trafford 3-0 back in September, before another win, this time 4-3 at home – in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals just before Christmas. Â

How both teams are lining up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this afternoon

The side Ange has tasked with making it three wins out of three against United this season is as follows; Vicario; Porro, Danso, Davies, Spence; Bergvall, Bentancur, Maddison; Kulusevski, Tel, Son. Â

Meanwhile, the players starting the game on the bench; Kinsky, Udogie, Gray, Bissouma, Sarr, Moore, Odobert, Scarlett, Johnson. Â

Notably, Vicario is back to make his first appearance since the win over Manchester City in November. Elsewhere, Gray is not in the starting XI for the first time since the draw at home to Fulham in early December. Odobert is in the squad for the first time since the win over AZ Alkmaar in October, Johnson for the first time since the North London derby, and Udogie since the draw with Wolves in late December. Very encouraging squad. Â

Meanwhile, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has gone with a line up of; Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire; Casemiro, Fernandes; Zirkzee, Garnacho, Hojlund. Â

On the bench; Harrison, Amass, Fredericson, Heaven, Lindelof, Fletcher, Kone, Moorhouse, Obi. Lindelof the only player there with any first team experience whatsoever.

After not starting with a striker in their last league game, Amorim has gone with two in this one – we can probably expect to see Zirkzee start as one of the two number tens. With a midfield two including Casemiro, perhaps Spurs have missed a trick not using the physicality of Sarr, but we’ll see. Â

The back three includes two slow players in Maguire and de Ligt, as well as Mazraoui, whom is not a natural centre half. There will be an onus on the likes of Maddison and Kulusevski to find Tel in behind the back line. They will likely try to sit deep and contain the spaces, but on a pitch as big as this, you hope the opportunities will be able to arise anyway. Â

Let’s see. There really is no excuses not to win this game, particularly against a side who now have a similar injury crisis to Spurs. Â

Even though the transfer window has already closed for Premier League teams, Tottenham continues to make headlines.

Recently, several names have been circulating regarding potential departures from Tottenham, and now reports point to a defender.

In the past few weeks, the North London team has been the talk of the town, not just due to transfer rumours but also because of how poorly things have been going for them.

With the Premier League match against Manchester United approaching tomorrow, Spurs are trying to stay positive because it’s no surprise that the team’s injury list has quickly grown in recent months.

Key defensive players like Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have been out of action, and one of them could be on their way out soon.

Liverpool wants to sign Micky van de Ven

According to reports from Football Insider, Liverpool hopes to secure the services of 23-year-old defender Micky van de Ven.

Although the defender has struggled with injuries throughout the season, and manager Ange Postecoglou recently expressed confidence that he will recover soon, a move to Liverpool might not be what Spurs have in mind.

Arne Slot, the team’s coach, is familiar with the Dutch player and is rumoured to want to sign him in the summer transfer window.

In fact, Liverpool's coach considers Micky van de Ven an 'elite Champions League-level' player.

The truth is that Micky van de Ven is one of Tottenham's best players, and his absence has been evident as the matches go by.

A clear example of how the team has been suffering was the 4-0 defeat to Liverpool in the EFL Cup, where they were eliminated and heavily criticised by the media for 'not putting up a fight.'

Truth be told, it is unlikely that Spurs will decide to part ways with van de Ven simply because they can't afford to sell him.

So, if Liverpool wants to secure the defender, they will likely have to pay a substantial amount to pry a key player away from Tottenham.

Micky van de Ven's statistics this season

Micky van de Ven is already recovering after a lengthy injury, and in fact, he had begun training a month ago but suffered another setback.

As coach Ange Postecoglou explained, the defender is now working with specialists to prevent further hamstring injuries and to ensure he can return to the pitch as soon as possible.

This season, according to Sofascore statistics, the Dutchman has played 14 games, with 9 of those as a starter in the Premier League, registering 2 assists and 2 big chances created.

Both the team and Tottenham supporters hope that van de Ven recovers from his injuries and returns to action for the upcoming matches later this month.

Tomorrow afternoon, Spurs will welcome Manchester United to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, for match day 25 of the Premier League season, with both teams in pretty dire straits coming into the game.

Earlier in the week, it was confirmed by Ange Postecoglou that Guglielmo Vicario, Destiny Udogie, and James Maddison are all set to be back for the game, in a huge boost. There has now been another injury boost given to Spurs - in terms of the opposition.

On Saturday, it was confirmed that United's Amad Diallo, who has been a rare shining light in a dismal season, is out for the season - and will therefore miss the game tomorrow. Furthermore, beyond tomorrow, this weakens a Europa League rival.

Despite playing for just 35 minutes, Diallo scored and assisted against Spurs when the two teams met in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium back in December. He has also scored against Liverpool and Manchester City this season, and in general is just a real threat - whether it be as a right wing-back or as a number ten in Ruben Amorim's 343 system.

Manchester United dealt injury blows ahead of showdown with Spurs

Meanwhile, it was also confirmed that midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is set to miss the game with an injury. Perhaps not as important a player as Diallo, but United's midfield options definitely look very thin without him. Particularly as Manuel Ugarte has been listed as a "major doubt" in the same report.

This could mean that Amorim is forced to go with a midfield two of Casemiro, and former Spurs midfielder Christian Eriksen. On a pitch as big as Spurs', that is something that they have no excuse but to exploit. This would be such a missed opportunity if Ange's side are not able to pick up three points.

In the two previous meetings this season, Spurs have come out on top in both. That said, a lot has changed since the aforementioned Carabao Cup win in December, never mind the Premier League win back in September, so let's see.

For example, in the win at Old Trafford, we saw Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Timo Werner, Dominic Solanke, and Brennan Johnson all start. None of those players will be available tomorrow, it would appear. Then, you had Erik ten Hag still in charge for the hosts.

As for the Carabao Cup game, Fraser Forster started (whom could forget, bless him), as well as Radu Dragusin and Solanke. So, yeah - those two games are not really relevant to tomorrow, but make no bones about it - anything that isn't three points would be a big failure.

In League One, as always, there were action for Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Let’s review how it all happened. Â

How things went for all of the Spurs loanees across the third tier

On Saturday afternoon, there was action for Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley’s Leyton Orient, as they hosted Lincoln City, for their third game at home in the space of seven days. Â

As always, Keeley was named in the starting XI, though Donley was given a rare rest, as he was named amongst the substitutes. It was the first time he had not started a league game since late November (coincidentally, the last game Orient lost before their unbeaten run), so it was pretty understandable. He had also played two hours against Derby County, 85 minutes against Manchester City, etc, in the FA Cup during that time. Â

Nevertheless, in the first 28 minutes – the O’s had raced into a 2-0 lead, and were comfortably the better side. It looked to be staying that way heading into the interval, but they would concede a rare league goal in the seventh minute of first half stoppage time. There is never a good time to concede a goal, but there are not many worse times than that either. Â

Midway through the second half, Donley was introduced to the action, as he replaced Sonny Perkins. Â

Then, with a quarter of an hour of the game remaining, Lincoln would manage to find an equaliser – only the second time Orient had conceded more than one goal in a league game since November. Really terrible timing for it to come. Â

Just as it looked like the O’s were going to be held to a draw, despite being 2-0 ahead – late drama ensued, as Charlie Kelman found the back of the net in stoppage time to give Richie Wellens’ side a late winner, as they then saw out the rest of the game to secure a massive three points. Â

That goal has kept Orient in the play-offs, in sixth place, with 50 points from their 30 games – they would have been ninth without it, so it cannot be overstated just how important it was. Next up is a trip to North Wales to face Wrexham on Tuesday evening, for a 19:45 GMT kick off. If the season ended today, the two sides would be facing each other in the play offs.

To finish up, Matthew Craig was again not involved whatsoever for Mansfield Town, as they drew 3-3 away to Blackpool.Â

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has faced a challenging season, with injuries disrupting his squad's stability.

Among the most significant setbacks has been the absence of defensive duo Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, whose unavailability has left Spurs struggling for consistency at the back.

While their absence has been a major blow, there is now hope on the horizon.

The North London club has been dealing with an intense fixture schedule, but with key players gradually returning, the outlook for the remainder of the season may be improving.

Spurs supporters are eager to see how the team will fare once these crucial defenders are back in action.

Defensive duo closing in on return to Tottenham

As quoted by Football London, Ange Postecoglou has provided an update on the situation, revealing that both centre-backs have been working hard on their recovery and could return in time for Tottenham’s upcoming European commitments.

The club is targeting the first leg of the Europa League round of 16 on 6 March as a potential comeback date for the pair.

The Spurs boss confirmed that both players have been training, albeit not always with the team.

"it’s a different sort of intensity, and when I say training, they’re not training always with the team.

"They’re doing a lot of individual stuff which is more based around them getting back to the levels that they need," Postecoglou explained.

Van de Ven, who briefly returned last month before suffering another setback, has been working with specialists to correct underlying biomechanical issues and prevent further hamstring injuries.

Romero, meanwhile, has been recovering from a quad injury and is expected to push hard for an early return.

"If it’s not then, it won’t be much after," Postecoglou added, "Once the boys get the green light, they’re going to push pretty hard."

A crucial period for Spurs

With a relatively quiet week free of midweek fixtures, Tottenham’s squad has had the rare opportunity for much-needed rest and recovery.

Postecoglou admitted that even he took a brief mental break, using the time to catch up on reading and watching TV.

While Spurs look ahead to the remainder of the season, their focus will be on climbing the Premier League table and competing in Europe.

Postecoglou remains determined, stating: "We need to improve our league position. Where we are I don’t think is reflective of what we have and that’s my role, to get maximum out of the guys we have. We need to move up the table and see where that takes us."

The return of Van de Ven and Romero could provide the stability Tottenham desperately needs, and with a more settled fixture list, the team will be looking to turn their season around.

Tottenham supporters have long considered Heung-Min Son a key figure in their squad, but after a decade-long stint at the North London club, his future is now uncertain.

With performances this season falling short of expectations, questions are beginning to surface about whether it’s time for both Son and the club to part ways.

The 32-year-old’s struggles could lead to significant changes at Spurs, and the club's upcoming transfer plans may see him on the move.

The recent extension of Son’s contract, which ties him to Tottenham until the summer of 2026, has done little to silence the growing speculation.

Despite this, interest from other clubs has not waned, and some reports suggest Tottenham could still be open to selling their star player.

Tottenham’s potential sale of Heung-Min Son

Tottenham’s decision to extend Son Heung-min’s contract was a curious one, especially given his recent dip in form.

The forward has struggled this season, often looking a shadow of his former self.

This has raised concerns that his poor performances could trigger wider changes within the team, with some even suggesting that Spurs’ manager, Ange Postecoglou, could be at risk.

Despite these struggles, Tottenham exercised their option to extend Son’s contract by another year, yet it seems they may still be open to letting him go.

Speaking to Tottenham News, Bryan King, a former Spurs scout, stated that the club would likely demand at least £50 million for the South Korean international.

"Son will have a year left on his contract and he is in his early thirties," King explained. "I think Tottenham would want a minimum of £50million to sell him."

Although Son’s on-field contribution has diminished, King points out that his commercial value to the club is significant, with many fans travelling from South Korea to watch him play.

Despite this, Tottenham faces a dilemma. If they hold onto Son for another season, they risk losing him for free once his contract expires.

Spurs' tough call: is £50 million enough?

Son’s declining form is undeniable, but his commercial and fan base value should not be overlooked.

His reputation as a global star, especially in South Korea, contributes significantly to Spurs’ revenue, both in matchday attendance and merchandise sales.

The £50 million transfer fee being speculated could be seen as a fair price given his age and current form.

It’s also worth noting that Saudi Arabian clubs have been previously linked with Son, with rumours of interest potentially resurfacing in the summer.

If the right offer comes in, Tottenham might find it hard to turn down, especially as they look to rebuild and strengthen their squad.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has been at the helm of the club for over two decades, shaping its modern era with financial prudence and ambitious projects.

However, recent seasons have seen frustration mount among the fanbase, with growing discontent over the club’s direction.

While Spurs navigate yet another challenging campaign, protests and chants demanding change in the club’s leadership have become more frequent.

Supporters are making their voices heard, questioning whether the club’s long-term vision under Daniel Levy and majority shareholders ENIC is truly leading to success.

Now, reports suggest that Levy himself may be contemplating his future.

Daniel Levy open to stepping away

According to a new report from BBC Sport, Daniel Levy is feeling the weight of the growing unrest within the Tottenham fanbase.

The Spurs chairman is reportedly hurting due to the widespread protests and, rather than avoiding the backlash, has chosen to remain present during matches to hear the frustrations first-hand.

More significantly, it is claimed that Daniel Levy is open to the idea of stepping away from his role if he deems it to be in the best interests of the club.

The 62-year-old is said to believe that 'every option is open' regarding his position, raising the possibility of a major change in Tottenham’s hierarchy after over 20 years of his leadership.

Daniel Levy has also acknowledged the criticism over Tottenham’s transfer dealings, admitting that funds have not always been spent wisely.

However, he maintains that recent managers, including Ange Postecoglou, have received financial backing, even if results have not reflected that investment.

A legacy of near misses

While frustration among fans is understandable, Tottenham’s leadership argues that the club has been closer to success than many realise.

Let’s not forget that Tottenham currently sit 14th in the Premier League and have been knocked out of both the Carabao Cup and the EFL Cup.

Under Levy’s tenure, Spurs have reached 15 semi-finals and six finals, with the 2008 League Cup being their only triumph.

Despite these near misses, Tottenham remains one of England’s biggest clubs, boasting a world-class stadium and a squad with significant potential.

However, with the team struggling in the league and trophy hopes fading once again, questions over Levy’s ability to take the club to the next level remain.

If Daniel Levy does decide to step aside, it could mark the start of a new era for Tottenham.

This weekend, as always – there will be plenty of games for Tottenham Hotspur loanees, with a more straightforward return to league football for some of those players. Let’s take a look at how the weekend shapes up. Â

Just before we do that, though – a quick update on a game that has already happened. George Abbott and his Notts County side went to Port Vale in League Two action on Thursday night, falling to a 1-0 defeat in a really big game. As always, he played the 90 minutes – completing 3 out of 4 dribbles, and winning 9/12 ground duels. Superb. Â

In the Championship, Yang Min-hyeok and his QPR side will host Derby County, where we could see the South Korean make his first start for the club. This game is on Friday night, live in front of the Sky Sports cameras – for a 20:00 GMT kick off. Â

Elsewhere, Ashley Phillips and his Stoke City side are in action at home to Swansea City on Saturday, as they look to bounce back from their midweek defeat away to Bristol City. 15:00 GMT kick off here. Â

Meanwhile, Will Lankshear and his West Bromwich Albion side will make the trip to London to face Millwall – for another 15:00 GMT kick off. Â

In League One, Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley’s Leyton Orient side will be in action at home for the third time in a week, as they host Lincoln City on Saturday. Both players were rewarded for their fine form with nominations for the London Football Awards. Kick off here is 15:00 GMT. Â

Down in the National League, Luca Gunter and Wealdstone face Yeovil Town, as they look for their first win since just before Christmas. 15:00 GMT kick off here.Â

North of the border, Alfie Dorrington and Aberdeen face Dundee on the road in the Scottish Premiership, as they look for their first league win in three months. 15:00 GMT kick off for that one. Â

In La Liga, Bryan Gil and his Girona side will host Getafe on Friday night, also for a 20:00 GMT kick off. Meanwhile, Alejo Veliz and RCD Espanyol will host Athletic Club on Sunday, for a 13:00 GMT kick off. Â

Finally, over in Belgium – Luka Vuskovic, Alfie Devine, and KVC Westerlo face Cercle Brugge in league action. In their last outing, Vuskovic missed the game through injury, whilst Devine went off injured in the first half, so let’s hope they are both back and available for this one here. This game kicks off at 18:15 GMT on Sunday.

On the latest episode of the stick to football podcast, Manchester United legend Roy Keane has given a typically scathing verdict of Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison, which has caused some controversy.

Roy Keane with some harsh words regarding Spurs midfielder James Maddison

Speaking on the podcast, Keane said: "I'm on about [currently injured] players who will have an impact [when they return]. Listen, we saw Maddison at Tamworth, he was taken off. Tamworth are non league. People say Maddison's the man - when's he going to step up to the plate? He got relegated with Leicester - about to get relegated with Spurs!

Maddison isn't bad - when he's not at the Darts - but let me tell you: if you think he's going to come back and get Spurs back and get Spurs top six - you're in cuckoo land!

He's a good player, he's a talented player, but if you're a player in the Spurs dressing room, and Maddison's back in the squad, you wouldn't be looking [around] and going 'oh Jesus he's back today, we're going to be fine!' England had a squad of 300, and he can't even get in that! Don't kid yourselves everybody.

You [Jill Scott] praise every player, it's like [with] Boyzone, you love everybody. I've asked you to name some players [who would make an impact returning from injury], you're naming players who you go 'yeah they're [only] not bad.'

Weirdly, if Keane had made this argument last summer, it would have made more sense, and had more merit to it. This season, it feels harsh. Before injury, Maddison was having a really good season. Although he has not played in the league since the defeat to Everton, he is still Spurs' top scorer in the competition, with eight.

That too, and without his goal and assist against Hoffenheim in the Europa League, Spurs would not be having these two, extremely rare midweeks off. So, it does feel harsh. As someone who has criticised Maddison in the past, it is only fair to say he was having a really good season before the injury.