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Match Report: Everton 3

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On Sunday afternoon, Tottenham Hotspur made their final Premier League trip to Goodison Park, as they faced Everton for game week 22.

How things unravelled at Goodison Park against Everton

With news circulating last night that Dominic Solanke was the latest Spurs player to be set for a spell on the sidelines following a knee injury, Ange opted for a 343 shape of; Kinsky; Porro,

Gray, Dragusin, Davies, Spence; Bergvall, Sarr; Kulusevski, Son, Maddison.

Seven minutes in, Spurs lost the ball, leading to a chance on the edge of the box, with Kinsky having to save a well struck effort from Jesper Lindstrom.

However, after 13 minutes, they would take the lead. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who hasn't scored for 17 Premier League games, opened the scoring, because of course he did. The most obvious outcome in the history of sport.

After 18 minutes of the game, Son ran through on goal, but was tackled by James Tarkowski as he went to shoot. Sadly, a real time indication that he is not the player he used to be. There is no way the 21/22 version of Son is caught up like that. No chance.

Midway through the first half, Kulusevski managed to get in behind, before cutting the ball back for Son. The skipper's swept finish was however way too comfortable for Jordan Pickford. Again, a few years ago, there is no way that isn't in the bottom corner.

One minute later, Calvert-Lewin found himself clean through on goal, but almost had too much time, over thought things, and then took a heavy touch that allowed Kinsky to smother the ball. Huge let off.

Moments afterwards, Everton very nearly made it two again, but Kinsky managed to tip an effort onto Orel Mangala onto the post. Down the other end, Son had a strike from a tight angle kept out by Pickford.

Then, on the half hour mark, it was 2-0. A quick one-two from Everton opened Spurs up, allowing Ndiaye to take on Dragusin one on one, which is always a mismatch - before having the composure to fire home a powerful left footed effort.

With five minutes of the first half remaining, Bergvall picked up a yellow card for a foul on Calvert-Lewin. There was then a lengthy stoppage after a Dragusin injury, but he was fine to play on.

Five minutes into stoppage time, it was nearly three - but Kinsky kept out a Calvert-Lewin header. More set pieces worries in any case.

Spurs just could not get out, and then it was three. The set pieces kept on coming, and eventually the ball went in via an own goal. 3-0 to Everton at half time.

At half time, Ange brought on Richarlison against his former club, replacing Dragusin.

On the hour mark, Calvert-Lewin missed a big opportunity to make it four. The first moment of any note in the second half.

Even when Spurs have been open defensively and lost games under Ange, thyey have at least looked exciting going forward. Today they couldn't pass water, unless it was backwards. So sloppy in possession it's untrue.

You may have noticed that Thomas Tuchel was at the game. Well, even though he is said to be a fan of Maddison, he will not have done his chances any good today. Poor Archie Gray, everyone thinking he will get a chance in midfield. Plays in a back three and a back four with Tuchel watching, and - completely understandably - has a tough day. Symptomatic of all the issues at the club.

With a little under 20 minutes to go, Moore came on to replace Sarr. A few minutes later, they had a goal back. After weaving away from Pickford, Maddison squared to Moore, whose shot was blocked, but the ball fell to Kulusevski, who lifted a finish above all the defenders and into the back of the net. Great finish. He deserves better than this team.

In stoppage time, a world class from Mikey Moore was tapped home by Richarlison. Three of his last four Premier League goals have been against his former club. He did look to injure himself in the process, typically. Just like he injured himself assisting against Aston Villa.

Full-time, 3-2. The two goals can't paper over the cracks here. Everton just scored one sixth of their Premier League goals against Spurs. The only team to have lost to Southampton, by the way.

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Spurs loan watch: Third tier round up

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In the third tier of English football, there were eleven games taking place on Saturday. This included games for Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Josh Keeley, Jamie Donley, and their Leyton Orient side travelled to face Peterborough United - whilst Matthew Craig and Mansfield Town hosted Wycombe Wanderers.

How it all happened for Spurs loanees across League One

One of three early kick-offs in League One was Orient's trip to Peterborough. As usual, Keeley - fresh off winning the PFA fans League One player of the month award - and Donley were both named in the starting XI.

Unfortunately for the O's, they could not capitalise on their recent good form - being held to a 0-0 draw in what was a pretty lowkey affair. Playing two hours on Tuesday night, whilst Peterborough had not played since last Thursday, probably did not help things either.

Despite his recent good form, it was one of Donley's quieter days in an Orient shirt, and he was substituted after 59 minutes. On a brighter note, yet another clean sheet for Keeley, who made three saves, five clearances, and completed 3/3 successful run outs, showing just how much of a modern keeper he is.

After this shutout, only Murphy Mahoney of Stevenage (13) has kept more clean sheet's than Keeley's 11. This is despite missing 10 league games this season. That's right. The young goalkeeper has kept 11 clean sheets in 15 league games. Add to that a penalty save and an assist. Some season it has been for him so far.

This draw leaves Orient 8th in the League One table, with 38 points from their 25 games to date. They have still not lost in the league since the 26th of November, winning seven and drawing two in that time - with the two goals conceded at Bristol Rovers the only times Keeley has been beaten - with one being a penalty.

Meanwhile, Craig was on the bench as Mansfield hosted Wycombe. After 57 minutes, he came on for his league debut, whilst the Stags were losing 1-0. They would equalise eleven minutes later, but fell to an 87th minute winner, and were condemned to a 2-1 defeat.

This defeat leaves Nigel Clough's side in 10th place in League One, with 37 points from their 24 games so far.

Next up for Orient is a game in the Bristol St Motors trophy against Stevenage at home. Given the importance the two Spurs loanees have to the team, we may not see them involved in this game, at least not from the start - with managers usually rotating in this competition.

In terms of the league, they face Reading at home on Saturday, with a 15:00 GMT kick off. Meanwhile, Mansfield face Cambridge United on the road, in one of the early 12:30 GMT slots.

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Spurs dealt yet another injury blow

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We have already seen an absolutely ludicrous injury crisis at Tottenham Hotspur this season. So many crucial players have missed long periods of time. It's not only been injuries either. Rodrigo Bentancur missed seven games with suspension, and Mikey Moore was ill for two months.

Yet another injury blow dealt to Ange Postecoglu and Spurs

Tonight, on Saturday, the 18th of January, another blow has been dealt to Ange and Spurs. As per reliable insider Paul O Keefe, Dominic Solanke has picked up an injury. On his Twitter account, O Keefe said: "One normal day is all I ask. Dom Solanke injured - timescale to be confirmed. Knee injury of some description."

Just typical. Incredible. The 27-year old played in all 38 Premier League games for AFC Bournemouth last season. He then missed two of his first league games for Spurs, and has now picked up another injury. Really is a truly cursed club.

An injury to Solanke may make you think it is a result of having to play every minute of every game (and 52 minutes against a non league side on a 3G pitch). However, the fact it has been reported as a knee injury could mean it is not do with playing too much, and perhaps something a lot worse.

It still could be correlated in some way to the amount of games he has played, but there is a worry that it could be a serious knee injury. He didn't have to go off against Arsenal, which gives the idea it could have happened in training. Perhaps non contact. That said, he didn't go off against Leicester City on the opening day, and he did pick up an injury that game.

Very, very concerning regardless. Luckily, nearly three weeks into the January window, Spurs have done plenty of business at that end of the pitch to compensate. Wait. Tottenham are are going to have to play Richarlison from the start against his former club tomorrow, unless Ange trusts Will Lankshear. He didn't play a minute against Tamworth, so it would be highly unlikely to see him starting tomorrow.

Just get anyone in. Whoever it is. For example, Jonathan David is out of contract in six months. Lille cannot demand that much for him now can they? Whatever it is they ask for, Spurs can afford. It would just be down to Daniel Levy and co being cheap, as always.

Just unbelievable. Well, it would be if it was perhaps any other club in the world.

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Tottenham joins the race for highly

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Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly setting their sights on a key Serie A talent to address their defensive shortcomings.

With a reshuffle on the cards for their left-back options, Tottenham could be gearing up for a serious move in the January transfer window.

Andrea Cambiaso, the Juventus wing-back, has emerged as a prime candidate, and the Italian's profile fits the bill for Tottenham's ambitions. But Spurs aren’t alone in their pursuit.

The competition for Cambiaso’s signature is fierce. Arsenal, Manchester City, and Aston Villa have all been linked with the 24-year-old, making his potential move to England a tantalising prospect. Tottenham’s interest is expected to intensify as the January window heats up.

Fans of the North London club will be hoping their side can outmanoeuvre rivals to secure what could be a game-changing signing.

However, Juventus won’t let their man go cheaply, setting the stage for a potential bidding war.

Tottenham eye Andrea Cambiaso amid defensive concerns

Andrea Cambiaso, valued at €55 million by Juventus, has garnered attention across Europe for his well-rounded abilities.

The Italian is adept both defensively and offensively, making him a versatile option for any side.

According to Caughtoffside, Tottenham particularly, are looking to bolster their left-back options as they face uncertainties in the position.

Ben Davies is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, and Destiny Udogie has struggled for consistency.

Bringing in Cambiaso would not only address these concerns but also inject fresh competition and quality into Ange Postecoglou’s squad.

Arsenal and Manchester City also see the potential in Cambiaso. Arsenal, for instance, are eyeing him as a possible upgrade to Oleksandr Zinchenko, while City are eager to add depth to their full-back positions.

The financial equation and future implications

While €55 million might seem steep, Cambiaso’s age and potential longevity make the investment worthwhile for a club like Tottenham.

However, securing his services won’t be easy, as Arsenal and City both have the financial clout to match or surpass any bid Spurs might make.

For Cambiaso, a move to the Premier League represents an opportunity to compete at the highest level.

Whether it’s Tottenham, Arsenal, or another top-tier club, the chance to fight for silverware and test himself in England could be too tempting to pass up.

With the January transfer window in full swing, only time will tell where Cambiaso’s future lies. For now, the ball is firmly in Tottenham’s court.

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Spurs loan watch: Another superb day in League Two

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On Saturday afternoon, there was League Two action for Tottenham Hotspur loanee George Abbott and his Notts County side, as they faced Accrington Stanley away from home at 15:00 GMT.

Another brilliant afternoon in League Two for Spurs loanee

As usual, the teenager was named in the starting XI in midfield alongside the skipper Matt Palmer, with manager Stuart Maynard continuing with his tried and tested three at the back set up, with a slight tweak from 343 to 3412. Â

It would be the perfect start for Notts, and for Abbott. 16 minutes into the game, a corner from the left hand side went beyond nearly everyone, but the midfielder met the ball perfectly at the far post, arrowing a volley into the top corner to give Notts the lead. Supreme player, supreme goal. Â

Eleven minutes later, Abbott was involved again. The Spurs loanee put a cross into the box towards striker Alassana Jatta, whose header was bundled into the net by his strike partner David McGoldrick, as Notts took a 2-0 lead. Â

Then, after 63 minutes, McGoldrick made it 3-0, which is how the game would end. An impressive and big victory for the Magpies on the road, with another clean sheet, in their first game for two weeks. Â Â

As for Abbott himself, another great day at the office. The goal, the part in the second goal. As well as four tackles, three interceptions, 5/7 ground duels, 2/3 successful crosses, 3/4 accurate long balls, and 65 touches of the ball.Â

Normally, that part ends with another 90 minutes in the tank as a positive. This time, the youngster was given some rare, and much deserved rest, as he was taken off after around 85 minutes. Â

This win leaves Notts in 5th place in League Two, with 43 points from their 25 games so far. It is incredible how tight it is there. They are one of three teams on 43 points. 2nd to 8th place are only separated by five points, with over half of the season already played. Â

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Tottenham star signals exit in talks with close friends

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The winds of change might be blowing at Tottenham Hotspur as reports hint at growing unrest within the squad.

At the centre of this is Richarlison, the club’s £60 million forward, who is reportedly dissatisfied with his current role.

With whispers of a possible move abroad, fans are left wondering if this signals the end of the Brazilian’s chapter in North London.

Richarlison arrived at Spurs amid much fanfare, with expectations as high as his transfer fee.

But inconsistent performances, injuries, and limited game time have painted a turbulent picture of his tenure.

Could a move away reignite his career, or will Tottenham find a way to keep him in their ranks? A new destination may already be on the horizon, with links to an emerging football powerhouse.

Richarlison’s growing frustration at Tottenham

According to Football Insider, Richarlison has expressed frustration with his current role at Tottenham under Ange Postecoglou, reportedly confiding in friends that he’s ready for a fresh start.

Despite showing flashes of brilliance during his time at Spurs, the Brazilian has only made eight appearances this season across all competitions, leaving him dissatisfied with his status as a second-string player.

One potential destination? The Saudi Pro League, where clubs have long been linked with Richarlison and could offer the opportunity for a lucrative and revitalising move.

This revelation comes despite prior reports from Sky Sports, which suggested Richarlison was content to stay at Tottenham through the January window.

If he departs, Spurs will face a significant void in their attacking lineup, especially with Dominic Solanke and Will Lankshear the only other centre-forward options.

What Spurs stand to lose

Richarlison’s potential exit would pose a serious challenge for Tottenham. His £60 million transfer from Everton once made him the club’s second most expensive signing, but injuries and inconsistency have clouded his time in North London.

Last season saw improvement, with 11 Premier League goals and four assists, but even that wasn’t enough to cement his place as a regular starter.

Should Spurs lose him now, they may have no choice but to dip into the transfer market for reinforcements.

While Richarlison’s situation remains fluid, his next move could have significant implications for both his career and Tottenham’s season.

Will the Brazilian find greener pastures, or will Spurs convince him to stay and fight for his place? Fans will be watching closely.

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Spurs loan watch: How things happened over in Spain

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This weekend, during the first full La Liga slate of fixtures in around a month, there was action for two Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Alejo Veliz and his RCD Espanyol side hosted Real Valladolid, whilst Bryan Gil and Girona hosted Sevilla.

First up, on Friday night, was the big game at the bottom of the league between Espanyol and Valladolid. For the big game, Veliz was named in the starting XI for the first time in the league since the 23rd of November, as he partnered reported Spurs target Javi Puado.

After 31 minutes, Puado himself opened the scoring for Espanyol. Then, not long before the hour mark, Valladolid equalised. A few minutes later, Veliz missed a presentable opportunity to retake the lead for the hosts. However, after 71 minutes, they did retake the lead.

That second goal would be enough for all three points, with Espanyol picking up an absolutely crucial 2-1 win in their six pointer at the bottom of the table. This win leaves them in 17th place in the La Liga table, outside the relegation zone, with 19 points from their 20 games. Veliz played 80 minutes.

Then, earlier on today, Girona were in action against Sevilla. For this one, Gil started on the left hand side of a 4231 set up. Three minutes into the game, former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, saved a Sevilla penalty. Tomorrow is five years to the day since he saved a Troy Deeney penalty when Spurs drew 0-0 with Watford.

With 36 minutes on the clock, Girona took the lead. However, after 59 minutes, Sevilla equalised. Then, with two minutes of normal time remaining, the visitors took the lead, ensuing late heartbreak for Gil and his Girona side. The on loan Spurs man was subbed immediately after the winner, after not being able to make much of an impact during the game.

This defeat leaves Girona in 8th place in La Liga, with 28 points from their 20 games so far.

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Opposition Preview: Everton

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On Sunday afternoon, Tottenham Hotspur will make, almost certainly, their last ever visit to Goodison Park, as they face Everton for match day 22. Let's take a look at what we can expect from our hosts for this game.

How Everton are shaping up ahead of the showdown on Sunday

Most of you will have seen that David Moyes has returned to Everton, nearly 12 years after leaving for Manchester United - replacing Sean Dyche after around two years in charge. It was not the fairytale first game in midweek, losing 1-0 at home to Aston Villa, but by all accounts it was an improved performance, and they really should have equalised in stoppage time.

Last season, Moyes took four points off Spurs, with a win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and a draw at the London Stadium, whilst manager of West Ham United. He also took four points in the 20/21 season, and three in the 21/22 season.

In short, Everton are basically the opposite of Spurs. They are pretty solid defensively, whilst being absolutely horrendous going forwards. Most people see Southampton as one of the worst Premier League teams ever - they have scored 13 goals this season. Everton have only scored two more.

However, one thing to consider is set pieces. There is no doubt that is their most likely avenue of scoring - with the likes of James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite to aim for. We see how Ange's side defend from set pieces. Luckily for Spurs, Dwight McNeil - their general set piece taker - is set to miss this game through injury.

Also set to miss the game for the Toffees; midfielder Tim Iroegbunam, strikers Youssef Chermiti and Armando Broja, and right-back Seamus Coleman. Clearly, McNeil is the biggest miss out of all those players.

The clear dangerman (at least excluding set pieces) is Pape Sarr's international team mate, Iliman Ndiaye. An incredibly skilled and gifted footballer, he is the least Everton player outside of anyone in the squad. He showed what he is capable of last month, when he scored with a sublime outside foot finish against Manchester City at the Etihad.

In midfield, another Senegalese international in Idrissa Gueye is the man who puts the fires out in that part of the pitch. That side of the ball, they are generally a fine team - Gueye wins the ball in midfield, Branthwaite and Tarkowski defend the box, and Jordan Pickford in goal has won them several points. It is just going forward where they are particularly blunt.

Spurs won the reverse fixture 4-0 back in August, but it really does not feel like this game will be like that. One player who played that day, that would have been key here is WIlson Odobert. Whilst Ashley Young has generally done a fine job for Everton, he is 39. Getting Odobert to run at him would have been exciting - something Heung-Min Son does less of in his 30's.

Having Richarlison back out there instead, against his former club - of whom he scored three goals against last season - may be the play on the left side. Only if he is 100% fit though. We know what he is like. Be careful.

This game stinks of a 1-1. Spurs to take the lead, Everton equalise from a set piece. Hope to be wrong. Let's see.

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Spurs FA Cup fixture scheduled

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After scraping past non league side Tamworth after extra time, Tottenham Hotspur were drawn against Premier League side Aston Villa in the fourth round of the FA Cup. We knew that the game would take place between the 7th and 10th of February, but without knowing which day.

Fans were particularly curious considering the Carabao Cup semi final second leg against Liverpool is to take place on Thursday, the 6th of February. It has now been confirmed that the tie with Villa is to take place on Sunday, the 9th of February - putting to rest any concerns that Spurs would have to play two days later. The game will be shown live on BBC One and on iPlayer for those in the UK.

Date and kick off time confirmed for fourth round showdown

Interestingly, and perhaps weirdly - the game at Villa will kick off at the extremely lesser spotted 17:35 slot, which has lead to a lot of confusion from both sets of fans. Some have wondered why the game couldn't be played on the Monday night slot, with the game set to take place < 72 hours after the Carabao Cup tie.

However, there is something else to consider. Given we saw Spurs pick up two points from three games against Galatasaray, Roma, and Rangers - they may well only finish in the play-off positions in the Europa League. If that is the case, they will play the first leg of their play-off tie on the 13th of February - three days after that said Monday.

Furthermore, Liverpool - the Carabao Cup opponents - play their game at 3pm, two 1/2 hours before, and with much more travelling. Albeit, that is caveated by the fact they have a much weaker opponent in Plymouth Argyle.

Back to the Europa League point - February could be even crazier than January if Spurs do have a play-off tie. They could play on the; 2nd, 6th, 9th, 13th, 16th, 20th, 22nd, and 26th. Eight games in 24 days. They would be scheduled to play Ipswich Town two days after their second leg, though ideally that would be moved to one of the non televised 14:00 Sunday slots.

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Tottenham eye Mexican wonderkid also on Manchester City's radar

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Tottenham Hotspur have been busy preparing for the remainder of the season as updates on their key players emerge.

Both Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero are expected to return to training within a few weeks, giving Ange Postecoglou a timely boost as the team looks to stabilise its defence.

Meanwhile, off the pitch, Tottenham continue to attract attention in the transfer market, with reports linking the club to an exciting young talent.

Adding to the buzz around Tottenham’s involvement in youth development, a former Spurs academy player has joined two Tottenham loanees at Leyton Orient.

While these moves may seem minor, they highlight Tottenham’s focus on nurturing young players. Now, the club appears to have set its sights on one of the brightest prospects emerging from Mexico.

Tottenham reportedly tracking Gilberto Mora

Tottenham are among a growing list of clubs reportedly interested in Gilberto Mora, a 16-year-old Mexican midfielder whose performances have captured the attention of scouts across Europe.

According to CaughtOffside (h/t MX Futbol), the young playmaker recently visited La Masía, Barcelona’s famed academy, as part of the Catalan club’s efforts to secure his signature.

However, Mora’s talent has not gone unnoticed in England, with Tottenham, Manchester City, and Crystal Palace all monitoring his development.

Beyond England and Spain, Mora is also attracting interest from clubs such as AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and FC Porto.

Additionally, Mediotiempo reports that Feyenoord invited the player to train with their squad for 20 days, an offer that was accepted.

This wide-ranging interest underscores Mora’s potential as one of the most exciting prospects in world football.

Mora’s accomplishments at just 16 years old are remarkable. He became the youngest player to debut for Mexico’s senior national team and holds several records in Liga MX, including being the youngest player to score a goal, start a match, and debut in the league.

His skill set, which includes excellent vision, dribbling, and tactical intelligence, makes him a versatile option in midfield.

Who is Gilberto Mora?

Gilberto Mora was born on 14 October 2008 in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Mexico. Primarily an attacking midfielder, he can also operate on the wings due to his technical ability and versatility.

Mora made his Liga MX debut for Club Tijuana during a match against Santos Laguna, where he provided an assist in his 17-minute cameo.

His list of records is equally impressive: youngest debutant in Liga MX, youngest goalscorer, youngest starter, and youngest debutant for Mexico’s senior national team.

These accolades reflect his rapid rise in the footballing world and the potential that clubs like Tottenham are now keen to harness.

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