Hotspur HQ

According to reliable ITK insider, Paul O Keefe, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison is set to be out for the next 2-3 weeks, as a result of a calf injury. The 28-year old missed the defeat at home to his former club Leicester City at the weekend, but the hope was that it was just a bit of fatigue after the game away to Hoffenheim on Thursday evening.

Another Tottenham casualty in a long long list of them

This also comes after Ange admitted that Pape Sarr should not have played in the defeat to Leicester, with the player not being fit. Due to the injury Brennan Johnson sustained, Dejan Kulusevski has had to play a lot of his football back on the right hand side. Only a couple of weeks ago, the midfield was the one part of the pitch that had not been absolutely plagued with injuries, but even that has now been decimated.

It genuinely does not feel like this season that Spurs were really starting to purr with Kulusevski as a right sided eight, Maddison as a left sided eight, and Rodrigo Bentancur holding it down. In front, an inform Johnson off the right hand side, Dominic Solanke up front, and Heung-Min Son off the left hand side. Oh yeah, and a back four of Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie - with Guglielmo Vicario behind them. Genuinely feels about a year ago.

Still, it's all fine, because the board have seen this situation and made plenty of moves in the transfer window, that has now been open for 28 days. There have been plenty of acquisitions to help Ange. After all, they haven't sacked him - so they must have backed him. Right?

One midfielder the club have been linked to for a long time is LOSC Lille and England midfielder Angel Gomes, with those rumours once again coming to light in the last week or so. However, there has been talk that that is for a free deal in the summer, which doesn't really help the situation right now.

The 24-year old continues to be suddenly left out of the Lille side since the window has opened, which does seem interesting timing. With a few months left on his deal, and him being phased out of the side in preparation for his exit, he wouldn't cost much money to get now. However, we know the board are just simply not serious enough for that.

Still, let's see what happens the last few days of the window (probably nothing).

Spurs are in turmoil. One win in their last ten Premier League games and no home wins in seven, yes seven matches at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This is the club's worst run on home soil since 2008. The fans have had their say and have rightfully been critical of the performances of the team and Ange Postecoglu, whilst also not forgetting everyone else upstairs too. Â

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One fan in particular that has spoken out is former player Jamie O'Hara. The 38-year-old represented the North Londoners fifty six times in all competitions from 2005 until 2011, and even today is always very opinionated on social media about the club on and off the pitch. Â

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This morning he was on the famous radio channel 'TalkSport' where he expressed his desire for manager Ange Postecoglu to receive the sack, saying "At the end of the day, you cannot keep a manager when you've got relegation form just because you don't know who's going to come in, that's your job as a chairman to get someone to come in."Â Â Â

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"Every other team around the relegation zone sacked their manager, Spurs are the only ones that haven't. That to me rings alarm bells and if you think we're not in a relegation battle because we're Tottenham Hotspur then you're in cuckoo land. Spurs are in a relegation fight and they need to pick up points. If we aren't careful then the London derby next season could be Millwall."Â

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It's safe to say that O'Hara isn't exactly wrong. There's always the saying that goes around if a 'big' team starts underperforming, but we've seen plenty of big clubs across the major leagues get relegated. Spurs have to seriously start picking some wins up, especially with fortunes starting to turn for the likes of Everton with two wins out of two under new manager David Moyes, their first being against Spurs, who are now only a solitary point behind the Lilywhites. Â

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The fixtures do not get any easier either, with a trip to the GTech Community Stadium to face Brentford, who have been sublime on their home patch this season, followed by games against Manchester United at home, Ipswich Town away, Manchester City a home and high flying AFC Bournemouth at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This comes with having to balance three other games in separate competitions. Elfsborg at home in Europe, the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool, and a tough game in the FA Cup where they travel to Aston Villa.Â

On Sunday afternoon, Spurs welcomed Leicester City to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for game week 23 of the Premier League season.

How things went against Leicester City on Sunday afternoon

For the task at hand, Ange opted for a line up of; Kinsky; Porro, Dragusin, Davies, Gray; Bergvall, Bentancur, Sarr; Kulusevski, Richarlison, Son. Due to soreness, Maddison was not named in the squad to face his former club. Harry Winks started for the visitors, whilst Oliver Skipp was on the bench.

The opening stages were pretty uneventful. The visitors racked the shots up, but mostly from distanced and efforts blocked, with Jordan Ayew on the edge of the box having the best opportunity. Meanwhile, Spurs had a few sighters of their own on target. The closest strike was from Son, whom forced Jakub Stolarczyk into a save down to his bottom left corner.

After 33 minutes, Spurs had the lead. From the right hand side, Porro whipped in a dangerous cross, which was met by a superb diving header from Richarlison. Great cross, great goal. The Brazilian forward wrapped the ball under his shirt, which suggests a baby is on the way. Congratulations.

With six minutes of the first half remaining, Leicester had their best opportunity of the game so far, but Wout Faes could not get his back post header on target. Another set piece concern. That would be that for the first half.

Within a minute of the restart, Leicester equalised. Just so unbelievably easy. They were able to get in down the left hand side, and a low cross was converted by Jamie Vardy. So obvious that would happen. 38 years of age and still scoring against Spurs.

Then, two minutes later, the visitors had the lead. Bilal El Khannouss had the freedom of North London to drive through the centre of the pitch, and curled the ball in from the edge of the box. Seven Premier League defeats in a row before this game. Seven.

With ten minutes of the second half gone, Ange looked to his bench. In a double change, Reguilon and Moore replaced Sarr and Richarlison.

After 58 minutes, Spurs had a chance to equalise, but Kulusevski's right footed effort from inside the box was saved. That was their first shot since the 43rd minute, and second since the goal after 33 minutes. Midway through the second half, Ange's side had 10 shots (to Leicester's 12). Four of those shots had been from Porro.

That would be that. Nothing happened in the last 23 minutes plus stoppages to report on.. Two shots after the 72nd minute. There have been so many embarrassing defeats this season, but that is the worst of them all. Injuries or not, fatigue or not. Look at Leicester's form before this. The priority this season may be the cup competitions, but that doesn't make this excusable. As one of Ange's bigger defenders, it is pretty hard to argue the removal of his position now. It would be understandable.

The only thing to say about that is. Bring a manager in with very specific methods in, have an injury crisis, and don't back him. They haven't sacked him yet they haven't backed him either. Zero outfield signings all month. Levy and ENIC will always be the bigger problem, even if Ange deserves to go.

Tottenham have been facing a challenging season, with inconsistency in their squad performances and selection dilemmas.

Among the key figures in the squad, James Maddison’s role has drawn attention, particularly due to his ability to produce results despite being on the fringes of the starting lineup at times.

While the attacking midfielder has shown impressive numbers, including nine goals and six assists across all competitions this season, his place in the starting eleven has often been in doubt.

It’s worth recalling that recently, a pundit questioned whether Maddison should continue at Tottenham.

Now, Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has shared some insights into how he’s been handling Maddison’s involvement.

Ange Postecoglou places trust in James Maddison's abilities

James Maddison’s talents have never been in question, but his inclusion in the starting lineup has raised eyebrows at times.

Despite the team’s struggles, Maddison has delivered solid performances whenever given the chance.

His nine goals and six assists so far this season highlight his contribution to Spurs' attack. However, Dejan Kulusevski has taken the number ten role, limiting Maddison's starting opportunities.

Speaking about the midfielder's situation, Postecoglou admitted to Football London that Maddison has not always been thrilled with his selection but praised his professionalism.

The Australian manager explained that he's been managing Maddison’s minutes carefully, knowing that fresh, creative players tend to perform better.

"Madders was great last night. I think he enjoys having that responsibility," Postecoglou said after Tottenham's crucial win over Hoffenheim in the Europa League. "Creative players are always better when they are fresh."

Tottenham remains optimistic

Despite his frustration with limited starts, Maddison’s attitude towards his role has been exemplary.

Postecoglou further added, "He’s another one that is pushing through. He is not making excuses, he’s taking on that responsibility. I thought he was very good last night."

The midfielder showed his clinical nature against Hoffenheim, reaffirming his quality when on the pitch.

However, in earlier games like the loss to Everton, Maddison felt he wasn’t as clinical, which Postecoglou attributed to potential fatigue.

The coach also highlighted Maddison's dedication and willingness to continue working hard despite not always starting.

Additionally, Postecoglou was asked about Heung-Min Son’s goal celebration, where the captain appeared to silence his critics.

"Mate, goal celebrations on my list of things that in my brain space right now, it’s non-existent. Non-existent, yeah."

It’s clear that the manager is more focused on team performance and player development than individual actions, further underlining his team-first approach to Spurs' challenges this season.

Tottenham Hotspur are currently grappling with a tough decision concerning their promising young striker, Will Lankshear.

The 18-year-old has shown great potential for Spurs, but with the club’s injury crisis and lack of opportunities in the first team, it looks as though a loan move could be on the horizon.

However, given the current circumstances at Tottenham, the decision is far from straightforward.

His debut appearances have shown his ability, including scoring his first senior league goal for the club in a Europa League fixture against Galatasaray.

But despite his promise, Lankshear has struggled to find regular game time, especially with the team’s injury woes and heavy competition for places.

Tottenham's dilemma with Will Lankshear

Reports indicate that numerous clubs are interested in securing Lankshear on loan for the remainder of the season, eager to give the teenager the chance to gain more senior football experience.

Tottenham, however, now find themselves in a difficult position due to the injury of key striker Dominic Solanke.

Postecoglou had previously been open about the prospect of sending Lankshear out on loan, but with Solanke's absence, Spurs may need to keep the young forward in-house as cover.

Postecoglou was asked whether Lankshear’s potential loan move would happen before the February 3 transfer deadline.

His response was cautious: "Yeah I mean we’ll just kind of assess it. Where we sit right now with Dom still being out, we’ve got to be mindful of leaving us with a further player short."

This highlights the delicate balance Tottenham must strike as they evaluate their striker options and decide whether to part ways with Lankshear, even temporarily.

Will Lankshear’s role at Tottenham could be under threat

The ongoing injury crisis has meant that Spurs are without a number of key players, with Solanke’s absence particularly affecting the club’s attacking depth.

Postecoglou is understandably cautious about any further loss of attacking options, especially considering the uncertainty around Richarlison’s fitness.

Should Solanke’s injury be resolved in a few weeks as expected, Tottenham may decide that keeping Lankshear around isn’t necessary.

However, Postecoglou also emphasised that if Tottenham need additional firepower, the club might have to invest in an experienced forward rather than rely on Lankshear as a short-term solution.

Thus, whether Lankshear remains at Spurs or heads out on loan will depend on how the next few weeks unfold.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly eyeing Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo as a potential addition to their squad.

The 25-year-old has been one of the standout performers at Bournemouth this season, and his impressive form has caught the attention of several top Premier League clubs.

With Spurs looking to add more depth to their attacking options, Semenyo could be a valuable signing for Tottenham.

The Ghanaian international has been involved in nine-goal contributions across all competitions this season, showcasing his ability to make an impact in front of goal.

Tottenham are said to be interested in securing his signature, as his versatility would provide much-needed flexibility in their forward line. However, they are not the only club keeping tabs on Semenyo.

Tottenham's interest in Antoine Semenyo

As reported by Caughtoffside, as well as Tottenham, the winger has attracted interest from other Premier League giants, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool.

Arsenal, in particular, are reportedly keen on adding more depth to their attacking ranks after the injury to Bukayo Saka, with Semenyo’s ability to operate across the front three making him an ideal option.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking to strengthen their squad after Mykhailo Mudryk's underwhelming performances since his move from Shakhtar Donetsk, and his uncertain future at the club.

Liverpool, on the other hand, were initially hoping to complete a swap deal involving Semenyo and Ben Doak, but that deal has reportedly fallen through.

Tottenham find themselves in a turbulent situation as other transfer rumours emerge, including those surrounding Manchester City's midfielder and LOSC Lille's central midfielder, Angel Gomes

With all these clubs in the mix, it’s clear that Semenyo’s performances have put him on the radar of some of the biggest teams in the Premier League.

Antoine Semenyo’s value and potential move to Tottenham

Bournemouth, however, are not willing to let their star winger go without a fight.

The club has reportedly set a £50 million price tag on Semenyo, which could prove to be a stumbling block for potential suitors.

This hefty valuation could deter Tottenham from pursuing the player, but it also reflects his growing importance at Bournemouth.

Semenyo’s ability to contribute in multiple attacking positions is certainly an asset for any team. His form this season — with nine-goal contributions — highlights his attacking prowess and adaptability.

The next few weeks could prove crucial in determining Semenyo’s future.

Whatever the case may be, Spurs have a lot to think about and evaluate. Perhaps Antoine Semenyo isn’t the best option, or is he? Only time will tell.

This Saturday, there was League One action for three Tottenham Hotspur loanees and their sides. Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley's Leyton Orient were in action at home to Reading, whilst Matthew Craig's Mansfield Town faced Cambridge United on the road.

How things happened in League One for Tottenham's loanees

As usual, both Keeley and Donley were named in the starting XI by O's manager Richie Wellens. After half an hour, Donley assisted former Spurs academy player Dilan Markanday. Six minutes into the second half, Orient made it 2-0. That would be enough for another win, as they held out for a comfortable victory and yet another clean sheet.

Not only did Donley pick up an assist, but he also created five chances, completed five accurate long balls, and had 73 touches of the ball. As for Keeley, he made another two saves on the way to his 12th clean sheet in just sixteen League One appearances. He has still conceded in just one league game since the 26th of November. An absolutely phenomenal record.

Just an incredible season and something they should both be very proud of. It took a while for both players to nail their place in the side, but ever since they have, neither have looked back. You could see Championship loans for both of them next season. Who knows, with the form they're in at the moment, that could be with Wellens' side.

This win leaves Orient in seventh place in League One, with 41 points from their 26 games. They are just one point behind Barnsley in sixth place - the final play-off spot - with a game in hand, and superior goal difference. They could really make something of this season, against all odds. Very exciting times.

Meanwhile, Craig was not named in the Mansfield Town match day squad - with reasons why still unclear. In his absence, they lost 3-2 to Cambridge, whom were bottom of the league heading into the game. Very frustrating day all round.

This defeat leaves Mansfield in 12th place in League One, with 37 points from their 25 games to date. Still pretty good for a newly promoted side.

Next up for Orient is an away game against Exeter City on Tuesday night, for a 19:45 GMT kick off. As for Mansfield, they face Crawley Town at home, also on Tuesday, and also at 19:45 GMT. Both games are in League One.

Tottenham defender Pedro Porro finds himself at the centre of attention this season, but not entirely for the reasons he'd hoped.

Tottenham currently sit in 15th place in the Premier League standings. Despite their recent 3-2 victory against Hoffenheim in the Europa League, their domestic form has been far from encouraging.

Amidst criticism and a growing list of injuries, the club and its players, including Pedro Porro, remain hopeful as rumours of potential signings swirl around the team.

After a debut campaign establishing him as one of the Premier League’s standout right-backs, Porro is now facing criticism for his defensive performances amidst a season riddled with challenges for Spurs.

The Spaniard’s difficulties are not entirely his own making. With Tottenham struggling as a unit and injuries decimating the squad, Porro’s role has become even more scrutinised.

Rather than let the noise get to him, Porro is doubling down on his efforts, focusing on the team’s collective recovery and progress.

Pedro Porro’s response to the critics

Pedro Porro has made it clear that he isn’t fazed by the negativity surrounding his defensive capabilities.

Speaking to Football London, he said: "Sometimes the football is attack and defend. People are screaming I can't defend, but the critics are not important to me.

"The gaffer says to me and the team, the most important thing is to stay together."

Porro’s struggles often arise from being isolated in Tottenham’s system, which demands a lot from its full-backs.

Despite this, the defender remains optimistic, crediting his focus on staying injury-free and putting in consistent performances.

"I'm not focused on what other people are saying, if you just focus on what people are saying all the time you can't live as a footballer.

"Right now we're at a time in the season where we most need to support each other and stay together," he added.

Injuries strike, but Tottenham remains resilient

Pedro believes supporting each other and learning from their mistakes is key to turning their season around.

Tottenham’s season has been further complicated by a severe injury crisis, with double-digit absentees becoming a common occurrence.

Pedro Porro himself is now one of the most senior defenders available at just 25 years old. But, despite the mounting challenges, Porro’s determination to push forward reflects his resilience.

While Tottenham navigate one of their most turbulent seasons in recent memory, players like him will be crucial in helping the team find their footing once again.

As we're in January, that now means players whose contracts will be expiring in the summer are free to begin talks with clubs that are outside of their current league, this is more commonly known as the 'Bosman rule'.Â

Tottenham remain interested in Lille and England midfielder

One player who has their contract up in the summer is LOSC Lille central midfielder Angel Gomes, who has been with the Ligue 1 outfit since 2021, when he left his boyhood club and the academy he graduated from, Manchester United. The 24-year-old has impressed in his time across the English channel, and he earned himself a call up for the England national team, making his debut against the Republic of Ireland back in September, a game the Three Lions won 0-2 in Dublin. Â

Spurs have had him on their radar for a while now, and with him being set to leave the French club on a free at the end of the season, it would definitely look like a great bit of business for manager Ange Postecoglou to bring him in. Gomes is a fairly unique profile of midfielder, he is very comfortable at playing all three roles as a six, eight and a ten. He's small in stature at only five feet six inches, but he's mobile, energetic and can get about the pitch well, whilst also having that eye for a pass to create chances and help the team score goals. The midfielder finished second for BCC (big chances created) in France's top flight last campaign, but only getting eight assists. This shows the chances he was creating were being wasted by Lille's attackers. You'd think providing someone like a Heung-Min Son, these chances wouldn't go to waste as frequently.

Spurs will however have to battle it out with two fellow Premier League sides, one being his former club Manchester United, which of course could be very tempting for him. He's from the area and supported the club as a boy, however as of right now it is said to be believed he would prefer a move to North London. The other club in for the 24-year-old are Tottenham Hotspur's London rivals West Ham United, who are also looking to bolster their midfield options under new head coach Graham Potter. This one however seems unlikely with the Hammers looking to sign Dutch under twenty-one international Ezechiel Banzuzi from OH Leuven because they feel they need a player now rather than in the summer.

In recent hours, Tottenham have been in the headlines for more than just their on-field performances.

The club’s focus seems to be on strengthening its squad, particularly with a few key injuries causing concern.

On a positive note, three Spurs players have returned to training, but the situation took a turn when a midfielder was injured during a recent session.

Additionally, Tottenham has been linked with a Premier League coach, sparking curiosity about their future managerial direction.

Tottenham is also actively working on reinforcing their defensive options. With injuries to key players like Destiny Udogie, Spurs’ need for a new left-back is becoming more pressing.

That brings us to the latest update on a player long linked with the club.

Fabrizio Romano reveals the price for Patrick Dorgu

Tottenham have long had an interest in Lecce’s 20-year-old left-back Patrick Dorgu.

The versatile defender has impressed this season, having played both as an attack-minded wing-back and a right-winger.

This adaptability, especially at such a young age, has caught the attention of several top clubs, including Manchester United, who have now entered the race.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United has made the first official move for Dorgu, offering €27m (£22.8m) plus add-ons.

However, Lecce rejected the bid, insisting on a higher fee of €40m (£33.8m) to part ways with their rising star.

While United are leading the charge, Romano suggests that more talks are expected between the two clubs. Napoli is also closely monitoring the situation.

Dorgu, who is eager to make the move, could be a perfect fit for Tottenham, especially given Udogie’s recent injury struggles.

With the player’s price tag confirmed, Tottenham may need to act quickly if they want to secure his services before Manchester United makes further progress.

Who is the highest paid player at Tottenham Hotspur?

The highest-paid player at Tottenham Hotspur is Son Heung-min, earning £190,000 per week, which totals £9.88 million annually.

Since joining from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, Son has become a club legend, making over 300 Premier League appearances.

Known for his impressive dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability, Son is a key player for Spurs, consistently posing a threat with his ability to cut inside and score. He currently doesn't receive bonuses at the club.