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Back in the summer, Tottenham Hotspur moved to bring in highly rated Leeds United teenager Archie Gray, for over £30 million pounds. Unfortunately for the 18-year old, he has been played pretty much everywhere except his actual position - as a central midfielder.

Sam Allardyce gives his thoughts on Archie Gray at Spurs

On his No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, former Leeds manager Sam Allardyce has explained what has really surpised him about Gray's time in North London so far: "You’ve got to say this by the way, not in the memory of man would I ever have seen that lad playing centre-half.

Not with anything in my time as a manager would I have thought, ‘is he playing centre-half?!' Eddie [Gray, Archie's father and Leeds legend] still works at Leeds United and he’s a fantastic advocate for the club, a fantastic guy. He’d be gutted that they sold him [Archie].

It was a good move for him as a lad going to Tottenham. Obviously, Leeds needed the money but another Gray gracing the football pitch is great to see.”

Current Salford United manager, Karl Robinson - who was Allardyce's assistant manager during their brief time together at Leeds, added his thoughts to the conversation: "He [Gray] was a lot younger when we were there [last four games of the 22/23 Premier League season] but you could see he was technically very good,” he said.

“I never saw him playing where he’s currently playing for Spurs but it shows you his personality, because his family is in the game, that he’d happily play in any position.

He’s everything I love about football. He just wants to play, and it doesn’t matter where.”

At just 15 years old, Marcelo Bielsa named Gray in a match day squad for a home game against Arsenal. During his first two games in charge of Leeds, Sam Allardyce also named Gray in the match day squad, for games against Manchester City and Newcastle United.

Whilst all said on the pod is true, and certainly a real testament to Gray. You just really, really, cannot wait to see him playing in midfield. If he is this mature in defence, how good will he be in midfield. Even though he is a central midfielder, just seeing him as a defensive midfielder at this point would be nice. All of this experience in defence will leave him better equipped to playing as a six than he otherwise would have been.

He is also no less of a six than Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma. He would almost certainly have better awareness than the latter. He is also just as capable on the ball. Let's see. This will hopefully all be over soon.

Tottenham find themselves at a critical point in their season, with updates on key injuries providing both relief and optimism for fans.

Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero are set to return to training in the coming weeks, boosting the team’s defensive options.

Meanwhile, a former Spurs academy player has joined two Tottenham loanees at Leyton Orient, showcasing the continued development of talent linked to the club.

However, the spotlight has shifted towards a surprising development within the squad.

As Ange Postecoglou continues to implement his vision for Tottenham, questions have arisen over the role of one of the club’s key players, whose recent exclusion from the starting XI has sparked speculation about his long-term future.

James Maddison’s struggles under Ange Postecoglou

James Maddison’s position at Tottenham appears increasingly uncertain, with the playmaker seemingly falling out of favour under Ange Postecoglou.

Once regarded as a pivotal figure in the team, Maddison has seen his game time significantly reduced, raising concerns about his role and future at the club.

Former Tottenham scout Bryan King has suggested that a behind-the-scenes issue may be affecting Maddison’s relationship with Postecoglou.

Speaking to Tottenham News, King shared his thoughts on the situation:

“What Maddison needs is regular football. Otherwise, his international career is over. At the moment he isn’t playing regularly, and suddenly someone who was Spurs’ outstanding player at one point has become a squad player.”

King’s comments also highlighted Maddison’s frustration during recent appearances, noting incidents that suggest the midfielder’s confidence has taken a hit.

“If I were Maddison I’d be questioning whether or not Postecoglou and the staff think I’m good enough. If an 18-year-old is starting ahead of him, something has to be going on behind the scenes,” he added.

Maddison, who joined Tottenham from Leicester City last summer, quickly became a fan favourite, contributing three goals and five assists in his first 10 games.

However, an injury against Chelsea sidelined him for 10 matches, and he has struggled to regain his form since then.

Could Maddison leave Tottenham?

Maddison’s inconsistent performances this season, eight goals and four assists in 21 appearances, have not been enough to secure him a regular starting spot. His exclusion from Tottenham’s last four games, with 18-year-old Lucas Bergvall preferred in his place, has only added to the speculation about his future.

If Bryan King’s claims of a strained relationship with Postecoglou are accurate, Maddison could be considering his options.

“If he is going to move, I don’t think it will be until the summer. Something has happened between Maddison and Postecoglou, and it doesn’t sit well with me at all,” King concluded.

Whether Maddison remains at Tottenham beyond this season could depend on whether he can re-establish himself as a key player under Postecoglou’s system. For now, the midfielder’s situation remains one to watch closely.

Saturday is now looking to be a huge fixture for Tottenham Hotspur, as they are desperate to get their Premier League form up and running again, after a good performance against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup Semi-Final first leg, and an unconvincing performance but a win nonetheless against non league Tamworth in the FA Cup, it was a defeat in the league again as Spurs lost to their arch rivals Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

After initially leading through captain Heung-Min Son's volley, the Gunners pulled it back to come out 2-1 winners over the Lilywhites, leaving Spurs with just one point from their last five league games, and five from their last twenty seven available to them, with the only win since the incredible 0-4 away at Manchester City coming at Southampton in mid December.

So this weekend is a good chance to put things right, at an Everton side who are also really out of form, picking up just one win in their last twelve outings, including Wednesday nights 0-1 defeat to Aston Villa, which saw Scotsman David Moyes take charge of the Blues for the first time since 2013. Moyes is back in charge and he has one job, to keep Everton in the Premier League for when they head to their new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock in the summer.

Everton's biggest problem is simply putting the ball in the back of the net, with just one goal in their last six Premier League games, and just fifteen all season. On the other hand, however, Spurs cannot defend, conceding 32 in the league this season, leaving them with the 13th worst defence, which is absolutely nowhere near good enough.

Yes of course injuries play a part, and having to constantly change the backline can be disruptive in terms of not playing with each other enough to know each other's game, but that is still nowhere near the standard a club like Spurs should expect.

Team news:

Spurs are still without a number of players, key assets like Micky van de Ven, Guglielmo Vicario, Destiny Udogie and Cristian Romero all still look to be sidelined. Antonin Kinsky looks likely to keep place after he impressed, albeit being on the losing side, during his Premier League debut away at Arsenal midweek.

Meanwhile, Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur and Brennan Johnson are doubts for the game, making Spurs' injury list ever more depleted. Should Johnson miss this game, it would be his first absence since October 2023.

Everton are still without Tim Ireogbunam, Dwight McNeil and Youssef Chermiti, as well as the likes of Armando Broja and James Garner still being a doubt.  McNeil certainly is a big loss for the Toffees at the moment, with three goals and three assists so far this season, he is a player who could very much suit a Moyes side for when he comes back. He has a  set-piece delivery on him and we know exactly how dangerous a Moyes team can be from them.

Even without the winger, the Blues still have some big players that are always a threat, such as James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite, so Spurs better do their homework for Sundays game.

The game is being played on Sunday at 14:00 GMT, and is being broadcasted in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League.Â

This weekend, as usual, marks plenty of action for a number of Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Let’s take a look at how the next couple of days shape up for each one.

Looking ahead to the weekend for each Tottenham loanee

To continue the usual order, let’s start in the Championship. We see Dane Scarlett and his Oxford United side host Blackburn Rovers, as they look to continue their impressive start to life under Gary Rowett. Meanwhile, Ashley Phillips and his Stoke City side make the short trip to play West Bromwich Albion, where he could come up against Spurs linked Josh Maja. Both games kick off at 15:00 GMT on Saturday.Â

In League One, fresh off their FA Cup win against Derby County, Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley’s Leyton Orient side face strugglers Peterborough United away from home. Since November, the O’s have only dropped points once, with Keeley winning the PFA fans League One player of the month for December in the process. 12:30 GMT kick off here.

Meanwhile, Matthew Craig and his Mansfield Town side will host Wycombe Wanderers, where the young midfielder could make his league debut for the Stags, having started during their midweek FA Cup defeat at home to Wigan Athletic. 15:00 GMT kick off for that one.Â

Down in League Two, George Abbott and his Notts County side make the trip to the North West to face Accrington Stanley. The Magpies could go second with a win. 15:00 GMT kick off for this one too.Â

Up in Scotland, Alfie Dorrington could make his first start for Aberdeen, as they face Elgin on the road in the Scottish Cup. The teenager defender came off the bench for his debut in midweek, as they fell to a 3-0 defeat away to Rangers. Another 15:00 GMT kick off there.Â

Onto the continent, where Alfie Devine and KVC Westerlo side will face Royal Antwerp and Toby Alderweireld on the road. Unfortunately, Luka Vuskovic will be suspended, having picked up a red card in their last game. That game is on Sunday, with an 18:15 GMT kick off.Â

Tottenham Hotspur are keeping an eye on potential reinforcements, and one name has surfaced that could bring even more firepower to their attacking line.

With the January transfer window just around the corner, the club is actively exploring opportunities to bolster their squad for the second half of the season.

Speculation around an exciting Ligue 1 talent has caught the attention of Spurs supporters. With rumours swirling and competition likely, time will tell if Tottenham can secure this potential gem.

The club’s attacking unit has performed admirably, but there’s always room for more options, particularly with Champions League qualification in sight.

Enter a player who’s not only proven his worth but is also available under circumstances that could favour Tottenham.

Could Jonathan David be Tottenham's next striker?

According to reports from GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham have been offered the chance to sign Jonathan David, the prolific Canadian striker currently playing for LOSC Lille.

David, who will be out of contract at the end of the season, could be available for a cut-price deal in January as Lille look to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

The 25-year-old has been in scintillating form this season, having scored 17 goals in all competitions.

Known for his intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and technical ability, David appears to be the perfect fit for Postecoglou’s high-energy, attacking system.

Beyond his on-field attributes, David has been praised for his mentality and leadership. His national team coach, Jesse Marsch, described him as 'the most intelligent footballer I’ve ever coached' and lauded his 'infectious personality'.

Marsch added, "His ability to put things to practice, his ability to read in the game, what’s necessary. He’s really clever."

A proven goalscorer with big potential

Tottenham are seeking to build on their solid performances and secure a top-four finish, and adding a player of David’s calibre would significantly boost their chances.

Pairing him with Dominic Solanke would relieve the current goalscoring burden and add versatility to Spurs’ attack.

Given his expiring contract, David’s situation presents an excellent value proposition. However, Spurs aren’t alone in their interest, and they’ll need to act swiftly to fend off competition from other clubs.

With a proven track record in Ligue 1 and the potential to thrive in the Premier League, Jonathan David could be a game-changer for Tottenham – if they play their cards right.

Tottenham are wasting no time in the January transfer window as they continue to be linked with some of Europe’s brightest young talents.

Recent rumours suggest interest in Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho and Barcelona’s Ansu Fati, which has sparked discussions about the club’s ambition to secure top-tier players.

With Ange Postecoglou’s side aiming to strengthen their attacking options, another exciting name has emerged as a potential target.

The North London club are reportedly exploring deals that could reshape their attacking depth.

As the season progresses, Spurs find themselves in need of creative solutions to bolster their push for European qualification.

Tottenham offered chance to sign Rayan Cherki

According to a report from GiveMeSport, Tottenham have been presented with the opportunity to sign Lyon’s highly-rated attacking midfielder, Rayan Cherki.

The 21-year-old Frenchman, whose contract runs until 2026, has been linked with a potential move this month.

As per Transfermarkt, Cherki's transfer value is 30 million euros.

Cherki is considered one of the brightest talents in Ligue 1 and has already showcased the technical ability and creativity that could make him a standout performer in the Premier League.

Cherki’s versatility is one of his strongest assets. Capable of playing as a traditional number ten or on the wings, he would add depth and creativity to Tottenham’s attacking unit.

This season, the midfielder has contributed five goals and eight assists for Lyon, underlining his knack for providing both goals and chances.

While Tottenham have been linked with Cherki in the past, Lyon’s valuation and their reluctance to lose a prized asset could complicate negotiations.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has been vocal in his praise for the player, even drawing a bold comparison to Lionel Messi.

“Cherki is comparable to Messi in terms of technical quality,” Aulas stated, a comment that highlights the high expectations surrounding the young talent.

Why Could Rayan Cherki Be a Good Fit for Tottenham?

Cherki’s creative flair and technical skills make him an ideal candidate to enhance Tottenham’s attacking options.

With Spurs seeking reinforcements to replace key departures and address a lack of depth, Cherki’s profile fits the bill.

His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, coupled with his potential for further development, makes him a long-term investment worth considering.

If Tottenham can negotiate a reasonable deal with Lyon, Cherki could bring much-needed dynamism to the squad.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly contacted Man United, to enquire about potentially signing Alejandro Garnacho. Literally, shooting for the stars.

Tottenham Hotspur are going through a strange period right now. It is not only difficult to predict their current results but it is also difficult to predict the long-term future of the club.

This is because Son Heung-min, the captain and Spurs' most important player for the last number of seasons, is seemingly close to end of his Tottenham career. He recently signed an extension until the summer of 2026 but after this date, not much is known.

Therefore, Tottenham need to get one step ahead of the game by planning for his departure already. While it's not a nice reality, replacing a player like Sonny is a strategy which requires serious thought.

Tottenham contact Man United to potentially sign Alejandro Garnacho

According to a report from Football Transfers, Tottenham Hotspur are considering Alejandro Garnacho as a serious option to replace Son Heung-min. In fact, they have already contacted Man United about the potential to sign him.

Before the enquiry was made, it was already known that Man United were open to selling some of their key players. It is especially the case for those players who would represent "pure profit", with Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo at the top of that pile.

Furthermore, the report states that Tottenham would be prepared to open the bidding at £60m for Alejandro Garnacho. So, if the report is to be believed, then Tottenham are serious about signing Garnacho.

The Argentine wonder-kid receives mixed reception. This is because he has struggled to truly get a grasp on his form since breaking into the starting lineup. He does go through periods where he is an asset to Man United, only to be followed by his level dropping to that of his disappointing teammates.

Nevertheless, Alejandro Garnacho is the current holder of the Puskas award. His goal against Everton would have been watched millions of times by now and for good reason - It is one of the most stunning bicycle kicks ever scored in the Premier League, perhaps THE best.

Still, players cannot live off one goal. So, while he has tested the waters of his potential at Old Trafford, Tottenham fans will hope that he blows it up if he is signed. After all, it would take more than one wonder-goal to replicate the legacy that Son Heung-min has left behind at Spurs.

Earlier this week, Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglu confirmed there is a possibility that Will Lankshear could be sent on loan this month. After scoring in the Europa League defeat to Galatasaray in November, the young striker has not been able to kick on, playing just eight minutes since.

As a result, let's take a look at some potential loan moves for the young striker. Back in the summer, we tipped a loan to Oxford United - but they went with fellow Spurs youngster, Dane Scarlett, instead.

Looking at three potential loan deals for Will Lankshear

The first possible move is one to the Championship. Under manager Luke Williams, Swansea try to play front footed, attacking football, and create as many chances as possible. That they do pretty well. Converting chances, not so well.

Nobody has been to truly nail down the starting spot up front for the Swans so far this season, so there is potential for gametime, should Lankshear impress. Albeit at a lower level, Williams managed to get over 40 goals out of Macaulay Langstaff, eventually doing so well he got a move to the Championship - having not played above the National League North before working with Williams.

In the season he scored over 40 goals, Langstaff said he began running the channels in their first pre-season session, before he was told to stay between the width of the posts, being promised that the chances would be created for him. This could be a really good style for Lankshear to get goals.

Bit of a rouge shout here. We have seen a loan to the Belgian Pro League work absolute wonders for both Luka Vuskovic and Alfie Devine so far this season. We are seeing more and more English players over there - fellow England U20 striker Max Dean had six goals in 984 league minutes this season, before an ACL injury.

So far this season, Mechelen have created the third most big chances in the league, with 57. However, they have missed 37 of those 57 big chances - so it is clear that creating chances is not an issue, but finishing them is.

They are also another team that haven't had anyone nail down the starting striker spot, so it could well be there for Lankshear to take it. Going to Belgium as an Englishman has been brilliant for Devine's development, so why not Lankshear too?

Our third and final shout takes us to League One. Having achieved two promotions in three seasons, Stockport currently sit in 7th place, just one place outside the play-off spots. However, a big reason for that was Louie Barry - with his 15 goals and two assists - but he has since been recalled by Aston Villa.

Whilst the role for Barry was different to what Lankshear's would be - he often played as a winger, number ten, or as a second striker - there is most certainly a void goals wise, that needs to be replaced should they want to try and get into the top six positions.

Under manager Dave Challinor, Stockport have always created loads of chances. Their 57 big chances so far this season is the fifth best in the division, and comfortably averages over two per game.

Up front, Kyle Wootoon is a battering ram, who does a lot for the team. However, he has scored six goals this season, whilst missing 11 big chances. It would be really interesting to see Lankshear with that sort of service. Sure, movement is part of that, but the young Spurs striker has always seemed to excel at that, something we even saw in the first team against Galatasaray.

Really important to get this loan right. Let's hope they do.

Tottenham remain a key talking point in English football after a rollercoaster start to the season.

Despite their recent 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in the North London Derby, Ange Postecoglou’s team have shown promise in their Premier League campaign.

However, the spotlight isn’t just on their performances, it’s also on transfer speculation, with rumors suggesting a Tottenham player could be on Real Madrid’s radar.

Amidst this, a former Spurs star has turned heads with comments about his time at the club.

Harry Kane has shared insight into one of the most successful partnerships in Premier League history, offering a fascinating perspective on how a former Tottenham manager played a pivotal role in shaping it.

Kane praises Son and Mourinho for their role at Tottenham

In a recent interview with L’Équipe, Harry Kane, now playing for Bayern Munich, reflected on his partnership with Heung-min Son during their time at Tottenham.

Kane expressed his admiration for his former teammate and credited Jose Mourinho with unlocking the full potential of their striking duo.

“I got on incredibly well with Heung-min Son. I also think he’s one of the most underrated players in the top leagues. We’ve always had a very good technical relationship."

"But it took on another dimension when José Mourinho came to Spurs. Before, the roles were more established: I was number 9, and Sonny was on the left. Under José, we formed more of an attacking duo and there we created an almost telepathic connection with much more changing roles,” Kane explained.

The partnership was instrumental in setting a Premier League record for the most goal combinations in the competition’s history.

Kane and Son combined for a remarkable 47 goals, 11 more than Chelsea legends Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, who sit second on the list.

What made Kane and Son’s partnership unique?

The Kane-Son partnership stood out for its tactical versatility and seamless understanding on the pitch. Kane’s ability to drop deep and create chances allowed Son to exploit space and score with precision.

Since moving to Bayern, Kane has continued to showcase his qualities as both a goal scorer and playmaker.

When asked about the possibility of building a similar connection at his new club, he said: “I think it’s possible because I understand the game even better today so I connect even more easily. We can already see a glimpse of that at Bayern with Jamal Musiala, for example.”

The legacy of Kane and Son’s partnership at Tottenham will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic in Premier League history, highlighting how tactical synergy can define an era in English football.

On Wednesday evening, Tottenham Hotspur took on Arsenal away from home in the North London derby, for game week 21 of the 24/25 Premier League season.

How it all happened throughout this North London derby

For the task at hand, Ange went with a line up of: Kinsky; Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence; Bergvall, Bissouma, Sarr; Kulusevski, Solanke, Son.

In the early stages of the game, Ange’s side were seriously under siege, facing a number of set pieces. After 13 minutes or so, there was a presentable opportunity for Leandro Trossard, but his shot was well blocked.Â

Sixteen minutes or so in, Kinsky was robbed of possession by Kai Havertz, but did well to recover the ball. Hearts were in mouths for a moment. Very intense start to the game.

Five minutes later, a rare foray forward from Spurs lead to an outside foot cross from Spence towards Solanke, who seemed ready to convert — but an incredible intervention from Gabriel put the ball behind. From that corner, the ball fell perfectly to Kulusevski in the box, but he could not beat David Raya. Should have scored.Â

After twenty five minutes, Spurs took the lead. Following a corner, the ball fell to Son on the edge of the box, and the skipper’s strike found the bottom corner, via the aid of a deflection off an Arsenal player.Â

Two minutes later, Sarr found himself in the book for delaying the restart following a foul. Pretty needless yellow card, especially in a game like this.Â

There were five minutes of the first half remaining when Gabriel nipped in at the far post to head the ball in via Solanke for an own goal. The decision to give a corner was the talking point, with the ball coming off Trossard last. I assume the fanbase that think PGMOL have an agenda against them will agree with that decision.Â

With two minutes of the half remaining, Arsenal made it two. Really poor from Bissouma who got dispossessed. Poor from the defence to not close Trossard down. Poor from Kinsky to let it through his wrists.Â

At half time, Ange introduced Maddison and Johnson to proceedings, with Bissouma and Sarr making way.

With just over ten minutes to go, Richarlison replaced Son, for his first appearance since early November, in the win over Aston Villa.

In stoppage time, Porro tried to catch Raya out at his near post, and smacked the post. The first and only thing to talk about all second half. Just wow. There have been some poor performances under Ange, but how many halves have been as uneventful as that second one there? Awful.

The moment Arsenal took the lead, it felt game over. Horrendous performance. Whilst the first goal should not have been given as a corner, Spurs did not deserve anything from that game. Make no mistake about it. That was utterly dreadful.Â

Five points from the last nine Premier League games. Everton next. If anyone is looking forward to watching Spurs try and break down a David Moyes team, they should probably get therapy.

Horrendous.Â