GIVEMESPORT

Micah Richards Can't Believe What he Saw 'Ridiculous' Aston Villa Star Do

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Micah Richards and Gary Lineker have praised Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers after his ‘excellent’ first-half display in the 4-1 loss against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

The Villans fell to a disappointing defeat in the Premier League at the weekend, conceding four goals in the second half despite being 1-0 up at the interval thanks to Rogers' opener.

The attacking midfielder was a bright spot in an otherwise difficult afternoon in North London for Unai Emery's men, creating two chances and launching two shots on goal.

The 22-year-old was substituted by Emery with just over 20 minutes to go, after which Villa conceded three late goals, resulting in their second loss of the season.

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Richards admired Rogers' first-half performance, highlighting his technical abilities in midfield as well as his finishing:

“How good is Morgan Rogers? Seriously? He's ridiculous. From a player who’s come from Middlesbrough, the way he drives the ball in midfield, and he changes direction so quickly, and then he's got the end product as well.

“I just thought, obviously, we don't normally talk about the losing teams and a player sort of standing out, but I thought in that first half he was really excellent again.”

Lineker also praised Rogers' physicality, noting how difficult it is to dispossess the 22-year-old:

“He takes some getting off the ball when he's got it, he’s strong and holds people off.”

Rogers has been one of Villa's key players since joining from Middlesbrough in January, and recent reports suggest he could soon be rewarded with a new contract.

The Villans are now eager to reflect his growing importance to Emery's side, nearly a year after he signed a five-and-a-half-year deal upon his arrival from the Championship for £15million.

The 22-year-old has recorded six goals and four assists in 29 appearances since joining Villa last winter and already has four goal contributions this term, with only Ollie Watkins managing more (7).

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Exclusive: Postecoglou has Son 'Dilemma' at Tottenham Amid £60m Star's Injury

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Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou is being made to contend with a significant selection headache ahead of clashes against Galatasaray and Ipswich Town as Richarlison's injury setback could force the tactician into rethinking plans to utilise Heung-min Son at Hotspur Way, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Although Spurs returned to winning ways as they sealed a 4-1 victory over Aston Villa last weekend, with Dominic Solanke grabbing a brace in the Premier League contest to take his tally to five goals since joining from Bournemouth in the summer, the three points came at a cost.

Postecoglou conceded that Richarlison sustained a hamstring problem after coming on as a substitute in the encounter, resulting in him having to be withdrawn, and Tottenham have been left sweating over whether he will be able to make a full recovery ahead of the fast-approaching international break.

Richarlison Blow May be Major Spurs Setback

Capital club poised to make further checks after being forced off

Tottenham are fearful that Richarlison's injury could be a major setback at a time when Son and Timo Werner's minutes are being carefully managed as they aim to shake off issues of their own, according to GMS sources, resulting in Postecoglou being left with a dilemma as he plans for this week's encounters with Galatasaray and Ipswich.

The Brazil international, who has been on Spurs' books since completing a £60million switch from Premier League rivals Everton in July 2022, is in danger of being unable to compete in the contests after suffering the injury while claiming an assist during the win over Aston Villa last time out.

GMS sources have been informed that further checks need to be made on Richarlison, Son and Werner to work out whether any of them are in a position to start the Europa League meeting with Turkish giants Galatasaray, while Mikey Moore could be handed a route back into the line-up if Postecoglou wants to take a cautious approach.

Spurs will make the trip to Rams Park on Thursday looking to maintain their 100 per cent winning record in continental action this season, having scored six goals and conceded just two when they have overcome Qarabag, Ferencvaros and AZ Alkmaar, but injuries are proving to be a problem as preparations are made.

Although Werner got his name on the scoresheet during the Carabao Cup victory over Manchester City last week, GMS sources have learned that he is not fully fit and he remained an unused substitute against Aston Villa as the decision was made for Postecoglou to take precautionary measures.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Richarlison, Heung-min Son and Timo Werner earn a combined total of £445,000-per-week at Tottenham Hotspur

Postecoglou Eager to Manage Son Carefully

Tactician does not want to risk another spell on sidelines

GMS sources have been told that Postecoglou has been planning to carefully manage Son's minutes on the pitch as he is desperate for his captain not to suffer any setbacks when he is viewed as having the capacity to dictate what Tottenham are capable of achieving this season.

The South Korea international has been limited to just eight starts in all competitions since the campaign got underway in August, thanks to sustaining hamstring and thigh issues, and concerns that he could aggravate recent problems resulted in the decision being made to substitute him before the hour mark against Aston Villa.

Postecoglou has been keen to ease Son back into the fray as he does not want to consider the possibility of being without his talisman for key fixtures, GMS sources understand, and Tottenham want him to build rhythm as well as consistency to allow him to have a significant impact in the coming weeks.

Spurs' preference was for the 32-year-old to have a full week to prepare for the Premier League meeting with Ipswich - which he is poised to start - and miss the trip to Galatasaray as he aims to return to full fitness, but Richarlison's injury could force the north Londoners to go in an alternative direction.

Son was recently ranked as the eighth-best winger in the world by GMS, and Greek-Australian tactician Postecoglou is aware that another injury setback involving the former Bayer Leverkusen talisman has the potential to derail Tottenham's hopes of ending their lengthy wait for silverware.

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Alasdair Gold Blown Away by 'Crucial' Tottenham Star v Aston Villa

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Tottenham Hotspur produced one of their best performances of the season to come from behind and beat fellow top-four rivals Aston Villa 4-1 on Sunday (November 3). Dominic Solanke grabbed a brace, and he'll get all the plaudits, but Pape Matar Sarr was also superb in the middle of the park.

Sarr, 22, formed a midfield trio alongside Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski and was sometimes the deepest of the three. He excelled against one of the Premier League's most formidable midfield units, with one key pass and impressive defensive nous to keep the visitors at bay.

The Senegalese midfielder's brilliance didn't go unnoticed by Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold. He waxed lyrical on football.london and gave him a rating of nine along with Solanke. He also highlighted the important role Sarr played in the Lilywhites' win defensively and in attack:

Got better and better as the game wore on and was crucial for Spurs' third goal as he won the ball back and slipped in Richarlison to set up Solanke. An all action performance.

Morgan Rogers gave Villa the lead in the 32nd minute with a neat finish after a pinball-like scenario in the Tottenham box. Ange Postecoglou's men bounced back in the second half and found an equaliser in the 49th minute through the in-form Brennan Johnson.

Solanke came to the fore with a delightful five-minute double with 15 minutes left. It took the English striker's tally to four goals in eight league games, and he was excellent at leading the line against Villa.

James Maddison put the icing on the cake for the hosts in the 90+6th minute with a slick free kick. It was a vital win for Postecoglou's men and boosted their top-four hopes after a disappointing loss to Crystal Palace last weekend.

Sarr has been a mainstay in Postecoglou's side since the Australian coach's appointment in July 2023. The young midfielder has broken into the senior team and continuously impressed with performances that sometimes go under the radar. Today was no different as he and Solanke's resilience helped the Lilywhites get back to winning ways.

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Ange Postecoglou Explains Decision to Substitute Heung-min Son for Tottenham

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Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has spoken out on his decision to substitute Heung-min Son early in the second half against Aston Villa, suggesting that the South Korean international was always going to be taken off due to his recent injury issues.

Son was taken off shortly after half-time against Aston Villa, despite Spurs chasing the game and needing a goal. The experienced forward was pictured on the bench in 'shock' after Postecoglou's decision, and he didn't look too happy despite his recent injury troubles.

Speaking after the game, Postecoglou has explained the decision to substitute Son in the second half...

"He was never going to play more than 55 minutes. Last time he came back from injury he got to the 60-minute mark and got injured again. He got through unscathed."

Son is a player who lives to score and create goals, so being taken off when the scoreline was 1-1 would have been disappointing for him. It turned out to be a smart decision from Postecoglou with Spurs going on to win 4-1 and Son getting some much-needed rest.

The north London outfit travel to Turkey to face Galatasaray in the Europa League next week and Postecoglou will be desperate to take a fully-fit squad. After Son suffered a setback with his injury recently, it made perfect sense for the Australian manager to be careful with his minutes.

If Tottenham had have lost the game against Villa, then questions marked will have been asked of Postecoglou, but thankfully for him, they coped without their captain with the likes of Dominic Solanke and substitute James Maddison chipping in with the goals.

Spurs have plenty of options in attack that risking Son for the whole game wasn't necessary. Richarlison came on for the winger before getting injured late on, but the Brazilian provided an assist for Solanke. Maddison replaced him before scoring a free-kick in the dying minutes. Postecoglou also had Mikey Moore and Timo Werner to call upon if needed, but the attacking duo weren't needed as Spurs sailed to a comfortable victory in the end.

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Tottenham 4-1 Aston Villa: Player Ratings and Match Highlights

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Key Takeaways

Tottenham fought back to earn a 4-1 win after Aston Villa took a first-half lead.

Dominic Solanke scored a brace to seal the victory for Tottenham.

James Maddison added a stunning free-kick to cap off a perfect week for Tottenham.

Tottenham fought back from a goal down at halftime to put Aston Villa to the sword on Sunday afternoon and earn a battling 4-1 win. Morgan Rogers had given the visitors the lead, but Ange Postecoglou's side, fresh off the back of a midweek victory against Manchester City, tore up the rulebook, as Brennan Johnson's goal was followed by a quickfire brace by Dominic Solanke and a wonderful free-kick from James Maddison in the second-half to crown a perfect week.

Both sides were looking to boost their hopes of Champions League qualification with a victory over a chasing rival, but both teams struggled to break the deadlock. It took half an hour for the first shot on target to come about, which turned out to be the first goal, as Rogers capitalised on some sloppy Spurs defending from a corner to steer the ball home.

It proved to be the only shot on target in the first-half as Unai Emery's side grew into the game and took their lead into the break. It wouldn't be long after the restart, though, that Tottenham would find a reply. Son Heung-min would deliver a perfectly weighted ball into the box for Brennan Johnson to notch his fourth Premier League goal of the season just five minutes into the second period. Dominic Solanke followed up with a second shot on target shortly after, to no avail.

The equaliser had instilled the obligatory hope among fans crammed into the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium that the game was set to come alive, but with Son coming off after just 55 minutes, the atmosphere appeared to deflate once more. Returning to the dull affair that kickstarted the afternoon, the tie needed a hero, and it was Solanke who came up trumps for the home side.

In the space of a few minutes before the clash entered its final 10 minutes, the former Bournemouth striker proved he was worth his transfer fee over the summer as he fired Tottenham to a 3-1 lead. The Englishman struggled to make much of an impact for much of the afternoon, but with Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison finding him in the right place at the right time, he proved to have his shooting boots on when his teammates needed him most, taking the Lilywhites back within two points of the top four before Maddison's free-kick capped off a perfect week with a beautiful free-kick in injury time.

Match Highlights

Tottenham Player Ratings

GK - Guglielmo Vicario - 7/10

Can often be criticised for his penchant for coming off his line, but he did it effectively against Villa and caught a lot of deliveries into the box (except for the pivotal one!)

RB - Pedro Porro - 7/10

Was an attacking threat in the first half, as well as looking the most vocal when his defence was on the back foot. Did, however, pick up the first booking for a challenge on Watkins.

CB - Cristian Romero - 7/10

With Micky van de Ven injured, Romero proved himself as Tottenham's best defender, as expected. Although, sometimes, he was tempted into unnecessary fouls, picking up a booking for his troubles before being subbed off after pgoing down injured.

CB - Radu Dragusin - 7/10

A steady performance from the Romanian international, one that will put Tottenham fans at ease after Micky van de Ven picked up an injury in midweek.

LB - Destiny Udogie - 6/10

Really good at bringing the ball forward, but there weren't too many opportunities to make much of a difference.

CM - Dejan Kulusevski - 7.5/10

Industrious early in the game, consistently looking to cause problems. He was finally given his flowers when his pass found Solanke to take Tottenham into the lead for the first time.

CM - Rodrigo Bentancur - 7/10

Lashed an effort over the bar after some neat play from Spurs in the first half. Headed the ball at his own goalkeeper, leading to the opener against the run of play, but was decent besides that. Came off after 55 minutes.

CM - Pape Matar Sarr - 6.5/10

In a game of limited chances, Sarr tried to take it upon himself to find the back of the net from distance. Unfortunately for him, he couldn't follow up his goal against Man City in midweek.

RW - Brennan Johnson - 7/10

Scored the equaliser as his run was met with a tantalising ball by Son.

ST - Dominic Solanke - 8.5/10

Just nine touches in the first-half put his performance in a nutshell as the former Bournemouth talisman struggled to show his goalscoring prowess and make a difference. But boy did he come alive in the two opportunities he did get in the second-half as he deftly finished the comeback job before scoring another quickly after to grab himself a brace.

LW - Son Heung-min - 7/10

Guided an inch-perfect cross into Johnson to bring the sides level. He looked energetic after the break, but was surprised to be subbed off after 55 minutes.

Sub - Richarlison - 7/10

Having come on in place of Son, Postecoglou needed the Brazilian to produce. He assisted the third goal to wrap up the three points for his side, but his lack of match sharpness shone as he had to come off before the full-time whistle.

Sub - Yves Bissouma - 6/10

Decent, didn't need to do much, but did a good job at keeping the midfield in Tottenham's grasp.

Sub - Ben Davies - 6.5/10

Did well, but didn't really need to do much from an impact perspective. Just a solid, easy cameo from the Welshman.

Sub - Archie Gray - 6/10

Decent shift from the youngster who got stuck in straight from the off.

Sub - James Maddison - 7/10

Scored a beautiful free-kick to put the cherry on top of the icing on top of the cake.

Aston Villa Player Ratings

GK - Emiliano Martinez - 5.5/10

Made a decent save to prevent Solanke taking Tottenham into the lead. Cannot be faulted for Johnson's goal, but did let in four in the end.

RB - Matty Cash - 6.5/10

Solid in defence in the first half during his first-half battle against Son, but lost his battle early into the second period. Hooked off just beyond the hour-mark.

CB - Ezri Konsa - 7/10

Won all his tackles, completed all but one of his passes, and notched himself an interception in the process as Konsa proved again that he's Villa's most reliable defender in the first-half. This effectiveness didn't wane, as he became Tottenham's biggest roadblock to a way back into the game before they let all hell break loose.

CB - Pau Torres - 6/10

Solid defensively and just as good at bringing the ball forward under pressure to allow the Villa defence to breathe, until he got too confident and gave the ball away to gift Solanke his second of the afternoon.

LB - Lucas Digne - 7/10

Took the corner that led to Rogers' goal, but struggled to keep up with Johnson in the second-half from a defensive standpoint.

CM - Amadou Onana - 7/10

Hit the post with a decent header, unlucky not to score, as he did everything else nigh-on perfectly.

CM - Youri Tielemans - 6.5/10

Orchestrated much of Villa's possession game, complementing Onana's more defensive style, though his influence quickly diminished after the break.

RM - John McGinn - 6/10

Given all the time in the world to size up and thunder a ball narrowly wide, but was very quiet otherwise.

CAM - Morgan Rogers - 7/10

Capitalised on some dismal defending from a corner to score the opening goal. FPL managers love him, Villa fans love him, and it won't be long before his international manager loves him, too, if he carries on the way he's going. His injury may be a cause for concern ahead of a trip to Anfield next week, though.

LM - Jacob Ramsey - 7/10

Chased every ball and did the dirty work so that those around him could steal the limelight. Exactly what the doctor ordered, as the young Englishman helped Lucas Digne keep the in-form Brennan Johnson to scraps.

ST - Ollie Watkins - 5/10

Had a decent chance early in the game after an excellent cross, but couldn't make contact. He was effective off the ball, but his wild shooting was very uncharacteristic of a striker currently considered among the best in the world. A very frustrating afternoon, as he went off after ghosting much of the 65 mintues he played.

Sub - Diego Carlos - 6/10

Decent defensively, but had to play witness to his teammates letting the Tottenham attackers slip through the net.

Sub - Jhon Duran - 5/10

A super sub who was devoid of his magic spark on Sunday. As Tottenham had all hands to the pumps, Duran was curiously quiet, despite being the hero on many an occasion like this one.

Sub - Boubacar Kamara - 6/10

Was perhaps Villa's best substitution, but it was definitely more of a case of best of a bad bunch.

Sub - Leon bailey - 5.5/10

His pace brought something different to the fold, but he was ineffecitve when in possession.

Sub - Jaden Philogene - 5/10

Touched the ball four times after coming into the fray.

Man of the Match

Dominic Solanke

When given the chance, Dominic Solanke rarely disappoints. Though quiet for much of the afternoon, he stepped up when Tottenham needed him most, netting twice after the break to overturn the deficit and keep Postecoglou's side within reach of Champions League qualification.

In the process, he doubled his Premier League tally for the season. Certainly, he still has a long way to go before rediscovering his Bournemouth form, but this afternoon was a very decent start.

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Paul Merson Predicts ‘Big Blow’ Incoming in Tottenham v Aston Villa

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Paul Merson has claimed that a loss for Tottenham Hotspur at home to Aston Villa would be 'curtains' for their hopes of finishing in the Champions League - with Unai Emery's side potentially able to open up an eight-point gap over Ange Postecoglou's men if they deliver capital punishment in London.

Tottenham began last season on fire with eight wins and two draws from their opening ten games, but that has faltered this season with the north London outfit having won just four of their first nine games and lost a further four. That saw them in eighth by the start of the Premier League's gameweek ten, and if they lose to Villa, they will be a long way away in terms of Champions League qualification - in which Merson has described their season as being 'curtains' if they suffer defeat.

Merson: Tottenham Could Have 'Big Blow' With Villa Loss

The north London club need to win to fire up the table

Speaking to SportsKeeda, the Arsenal legend predicted the worst for Postecoglou if they did lose, especially with other surprise clubs such as Brighton and Nottingham Forest in the hunt for the top four. He said:

"Villa's high line could face problems against Spurs, but I just can't see them not scoring in this game. It's going to be a big blow for Tottenham in their attempt to qualify for the Champions League if they lose this game.

"Villa can open up an eight-point gap over Spurs if they win and that may well be curtains for the north Londoners' hopes about finishing fourth. I just think Villa have a bit more in them than Tottenham, and fully expect them to win here. Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-2 Aston Villa."

Not only would Villa go eight clear, but Brighton and Nottingham Forest are making a charge for the top four - and with Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal likely to finish in those spots, Tottenham do have a tough challenge - especially with Newcastle going ahead of them with their win over the Gunners and Chelsea also creeping up the table.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Ange Postecoglou has won 30 of his 55 games in charge of Tottenham.

Tottenham have not qualified for the Champions League since the 2021/22 season and if they do lose against Emery's men, it will be a tough road to navigate back from.

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Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa Predicted Starting XIs for Premier League, Van de Ven update emerges

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Tottenham Hotspur take on Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon in a huge game in the race for European football - with Ange Postecoglou and Unai Emery both aiming to climb the Premier League table and avenge their poor results from last weekend.

Villa endured a last-minute, disappointing draw at home to Bournemouth as they led against the Cherries on home soil in a result that saw them fail to leapfrog Arsenal in the Premier League table into third - whilst Tottenham handed Crystal Palace their first win of the season to remain in eighth-place in the standings. With the duo finishing fourth and fifth in the top-flight table last season, they'll be keen to uphold those standards once again come the end of the campaign.

Neither team will find it easy to gain all three points with injuries plaguing both sides, and so both bosses will have to act accordingly to set their sides up for maximum points - and GIVEMESPORT takes a look at how both clubs could line up in the capital.

Tottenham Hotspur Team News

Micky van de Ven has been sidelined

Whilst Tottenham beat reigning Premier League champions Manchester City 2-1 in the League Cup in midweek, the Lilywhites were handed a huge blow when Micky van de Ven was substituted just 15 minutes of the clash.

He and Cristian Romero have formed a solid partnership at the back, but the Dutchman will not take part against the Villans and that could force Radu Dragusin into action alongside the World Cup-winning Argentine.

It's not just Van de Ven who is injured; Wilson Odobert remains injured after picking up an injury in the League Cup against Coventry City, whilst Djed Spence is likely to be out.

Even Romero could be out with Postecoglou stating that he 'has a chance' at the weekend, but if not that could see Ben Davies move into centre-back - whilst attacking duo Timo Werner and Son Heung-min face late fitness tests.

Speaking in his pre-game press conference, Postecoglou shared the latest on the fitness of his squad.

"Micky [Van de Ven] has sort of strained a hamstring. It's not too serious, but we're probably looking at after the international break. Sonny has trained today. If he trains tomorrow, he should be okay for the weekend. On Timo [Werner] and Cristian [Romero], at the moment, there's still a chance for them for the weekend."

Tottenham Hotspur Predicted XI

Dragusin to replace Van de Ven

Tottenham Hotspur Predicted XI: Vicario; Porro, Dragusin, Romero, Udogie; Sarr, Kulusevski, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, Son

Tottenham Hotspur Predicted Substitutes: Forster (GK), Gray (DEF), Davies (DEF), Bentancur (MID), Bergvall (MID), Moore (FW), Richarlison (FW), Bissouma (MID), Werner (FW).

With Van de Ven ruled out, Radu Dragusin will get the opportunity to stake his claim in the starting lineup alongside Romero at the back, while Pape Mate Sarr should start in midfield after some impressive performances in recent weeks.

With Son likely to be fit enough to feature, he will start ahead of Timo Werner and Mikey Moore on the left.

Aston Villa Team News

The Villans only have one player out injured

Villa's season has gone much better than Tottenham's so far, topping the Champions League standings in the new league phase and sitting in the top four of the Premier League.

That, however, could be attributed to injury woes at Villa Park being minimal. Emery will only have one of his players unavailable for the trip to north London, with Ross Barkley out on the sidelines after an injury.

The Everton academy graduate joined in the summer and scored vs Bournemouth before Evanilson's late equaliser saw the Cherries steal a late march on the Champions League chasing outfit - however, he's now out with injury in a slight blow to Villa's midfield ranks, though they still boast the likes of Amadou Onana, Youri Tielemans, Jacob Ramsey and John McGinn to play in the middle of the park and with just one injury, that is a huge boost for them ahead of the trip to the capital.

Speaking to the media, Emery provided an injury update on Barkley, stating that the star will only be out for two weeks with the rest of his squad up for selection. The Spaniard said:

"We have only one injured player. Ross [Barkley] has a small injury and won’t be available for the next two weeks."

Aston Villa Predicted XI

Leon Bailey misses out again

Aston Villa Predicted XI: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Onana, Tielemans, McGinn, Ramsey; Rogers, Watkins

Aston Villa Predicted Substitutes: Olsen (GK), Carlos (DEF), Mings (DEF), Maatsen (DEF), Buendia (MF), Bailey (FW), Kamara (MF), Duran (FW), Philogene (FWD).

With Barkley sidelined due to injury the team is likely to remain unchanged for this game with Amadou Onana keeping his place in midfield despite being taken off at half-time twice in recent matches. Ollie Watkins will also expect to keep his place up front, despite the excellent form of Jhon Duran.

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Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa Prediction, Latest Odds and Best Bets

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As match week ten of the Premier League commences this weekend, Tottenham Hotspur will host Aston Villa in an intriguing clash in the first game of Super Sunday at 2PM.

Spurs come into this match desperate to put three more points on the board following their bitterly disappointing display against Crystal Palace last weekend. However, they did manage to overcome Manchester City in their midweek Carabao Cup tie, which could help boost their confidence heading into this one.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa will be looking to get back to winning ways to avoid three consecutive games without a win after they were held to a 1-1 stalemate against Bournemouth in their last league match and were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Crystal Palace 2-1 midweek.

Result Odds: Tottenham are Strong Favorites

Home Win - 8/11 | Away Win - 27/10 | Draw - 3/1

Despite Villa's five-point advantage heading into this matchup, surprisingly, it is the home side who lead the bookies odds this weekend, as they are favored as considerable favorites to claim victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

It has been a strange beginning to the season for Ange Postecoglou's side, as their performances at times have often not lined up with results, having lost four games already this season despite dominating the majority of play in some of them. Although they have held a lot of possession, at times this season they have suffered from being blunt in the final third against low-block style teams and susceptible to counter-attacks due to their high line and attacking style.

They certainly are an enthralling side to watch and are perhaps the most entertaining team in the league, but results will need to be slightly more consistent if they are to reach the ambitions of the club.

Conversely, Unai Emery has surpassed all expectations of fans across the country since taking over in October 2022, taking Villa from a team underachieving and flirting dangerously with relegation to a Champions League club beating Bayern Munich and level on points with Arsenal heading into this weekend. Currently fourth, Aston Villa have been phenomenal this season, losing only once in the league against Arsenal at home, a game that on another day could have gone in their favour if Ollie Watkins did not miss two sitters.

Scoreline Odds: Lowest Odds on a 1-1 stalemate

Draw 1-1 - 15/2 | Tottenham Win 2-1 - 8/1 | Aston Villa Win 2-1 - 14/1

Scoring the third joint-most goals (18) in the Premier League this season behind only Chelsea and Manchester City, Spurs have had no issues putting the ball in the back of the net in general, but have struggled against low-block sides at times. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have also been prolific in front of goal so far, scoring 16—only two behind the hosts.

Defensively though, both sides do not hold great records coming into this game, as only one goal conceded separates them, with Tottenham conceding 10 and the away side chipping 11.​​​​​​​

To win this game, Postecoglou's side will need to control the game and dominate the play, getting their creative outlets in James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski on the ball in dangerous areas as often as possible. For Emery's team, they will need to be defensively solid throughout the game, shutting off the spaces that Spurs players like to drift into, and transition quickly on Tottenham's high line with the pace and incisiveness of Leon Bailey, Morgan Rogers, and Ollie Watkins.

Goalscorer Odds: Both teams possess good options

Solanke - 6/4 | Richarlison - 8/5 | Watkins - 9/5 | Duran - 9/5

Dominic Solanke is favoured to be the most likely scorer in this game at 6/4 to score anytime, despite only scoring twice in the league since his big move in the summer, but his height and physical presence could offer Tottenham a more direct option if required.

Son Heung-Min also possesses great value to hit the back of the net in this match, as Tottenham's top scorer is a slight injury doubt heading into this affair but is valued at 6/1 to score first and 19/10 at anytime.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa's striker duo both hold identical odds heading into this weekend, as Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran are both favoured to be the side's most likely source of goals, at 6/1 to score first and 9/5 anytime. The pair hold nine goals between them in the Premier League so far, with Duran scoring four of those, each of which came from substitute appearances.

Prediction: Tottenham to recover from last weekend's blip in 2-1 victory

Postecoglou's men to edge a tight contest

This game is very likely to be a closely contested affair, due to the quality that both teams possess and the playstyles of the two sides. Tottenham will look to start the game on the front foot in front of their home supporters, and as always under Postecoglou, will be aiming to control possession high up the pitch, trying to score goals.

However, Emery is likely to set Aston Villa up to be very difficult to break down, cutting off the spaces that Spurs' attacking players like to drift into and using their own attacking quality to break on the home side quickly. Due to both sides' defensive records, it is plausible that both teams will score in this one, but Tottenham may just edge this one.

Both teams to score (4/9)

Match to end in 1-1 win draw (15/2)

Dominic Solanke to score first (5/1)

Ollie Watkins to score any time (9/5)

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Exclusive: Man City Face Setback in Bid to Sign £80m Tottenham Star

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Manchester City are in serious danger of being forced to pay a higher fee than fellow suitors Real Madrid if they up the ante and attempt to lure Pedro Porro to the Etihad Stadium from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the campaign, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

The Sky Blues are currently contending with an injury crisis, with right-back Kyle Walker among those on the treatment table thanks to nursing a knee problem, and it has led to boss Pep Guardiola setting his sights on strengthening his options during upcoming transfer windows.

Although Txiki Begiristain is set to leave Manchester City when the campaign reaches its climax, allowing Hugo Viana to arrive as the director of football's replacement, he is working closely with the Spanish tactician to identify potential targets ahead of being able to head to the negotiating table.

Sky Blues Face Increased Demands for Porro

Tottenham keen to avoid selling right-back to Premier League rival

Manchester City are keeping an eye on Porro's situation after earmarking him as a possible recruit, according to GMS sources, but they are at risk of having to deal with a setback in their pursuit as Tottenham are poised to increase their demands if a Premier League rival comes calling for his services.

Spurs have slapped a £80million price tag on the Spain international as they are eager to keep him on board after making himself one of the first names on the team sheet under head coach Ange Postecoglou, and they are particularly keen to ensure they do not strengthen one of their top flight counterparts.

GMS sources have been informed that Manchester City could be tempted to raid Tottenham if an agreement appears possible after also luring Walker away from the north Londoners when they previously looked for a new first-choice right-back but, in a major twist, it is likely that they will have to contend with more lucrative terms than fellow admirers Real Madrid.

The Sky Blues' domestic rivals are in a strong negotiating position and under no pressure to sanction the big-money departure in the coming months as the 25-year-old's contract, which allows him to pocket £85,000-per-week in the capital, is not due to expire until the summer of 2028.

La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid have included Porro on their shortlist of targets ahead of the summer as they are determined to bring in a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal, GMS sources have learned, and Tottenham would prefer to see him walk away from the Premier League if he embarks on a fresh challenge.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Pedro Porro has faced Manchester City five times during his career, suffering three defeats and clinching two draws along the way

Porro Targeted Despite Development of Lewis

Guardiola keen to discover whether swoop would be possible

GMS sources have been told that Manchester City are keeping tabs on Porro due to being eager to add more experience to their squad and they will seriously consider attempting to pounce if there are indications that Tottenham are open to cashing in, but they remain very happy with academy graduate Rico Lewis' development.

Although the England international has benefited from Walker struggling to rediscover his best form and injuries, allowing him to make 14 appearances during the early stages of the campaign, that has not stopped Guardiola assessing his options and whether further competition is needed.

Tottenham are hopeful of keeping Porro in north London, GMS sources understand, but they have also not ruled out the possibility of being persuaded to give the green-light to a transfer as there is an awareness that his market value has increased since his arrival from Portuguese giants Sporting.

Spurs' stance has resulted in Manchester City remaining optimistic that an opportunity to reach an agreement could open up, but they are also looking to tie members of their current squad down to new contracts, with GMS sources recently revealing that they are aiming to convince Rodri to sign fresh terms after winning the Ballon d'Or.

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Exclusive: Tottenham in 'Regular Scouting Missions' to Watch 20-Year-Old Winger

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Tottenham Hotspur have been obtaining detailed scouting reports on Dario Osorio's development and could force the Midtjylland star into making a significant decision over his future after being pinpointed as a potential Hotspur Way target for the summer, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Spurs were not afraid to splash the cash before the transfer window slammed shut in August, with Dominic Solanke becoming the most expensive acquisition in the north Londoners' history thanks to completing a £65million switch from Bournemouth, but boss Ange Postecoglou has wasted no time in seeking further recruits.

Fresh from keeping their Carabao Cup glory hopes alive by overcoming Manchester City in midweek, thanks to Pape Matar Sarr grabbing the winner with his third goal of the campaign, Tottenham have refused to rule out the possibility of luring Osorio to the capital in the coming months.

Spurs Running Rule Over Osorio's Capabilities

North Londoners aware mid-season switch remains unlikely

Tottenham have been sending members of their recruitment department on regular scouting missions to run the rule over Osorio, according to GMS sources, resulting in Postecoglou and technical director Johan Lange securing detailed reports as they contemplate whether he is capable of making an impact in the Premier League.

The winger has found the back of the net three times and registered a solitary assist over the course of 13 appearances in all competitions this season, resulting in Danish outfit Midtjylland being eager to retain his services as they go in search of silverware and progressing in the Europa League.

GMS sources have been informed that a January move for Osorio is not on the cards, leading to Tottenham being forced to remain patient as they go in search of fresh competition for Brennan Johnson, but there may be an opportunity to pounce at the end of the season if he continues showing signs of development in his current surroundings.

Spurs' key decision-makers are aware that the 20-year-old will not be seeking a significant salary if they manage to get the deal over the line as he is currently on terms worth £5,400-per-week at the MCH Arena, meaning there would be room in the budget for Postecoglou to secure further reinforcements.

Osorio has caught Tottenham's eye with his style of play and 'lovely left foot', GMS sources have learned, as he usually cuts inside from the right flank and is also showing versatility by becoming more accustomed to being deployed through the middle as Midtjylland go in search of goals.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Dario Osorio has got his name on the scoresheet 22 times during the first 94 outings of his senior club career

Brentford Among Sides Competing for Osorio

Frank poised to go head-to-head with Postecoglou in pursuit

GMS sources have been told that Tottenham are in danger of facing stiff competition for Osorio's signature as Premier League rivals Brentford are in a similar position thanks to also sending scouts to watch him in action on a regular basis, allowing them to gain details on how he would fit into chief Thomas Frank's preferred system.

Title-chasers Liverpool seriously considered landing the Chile international during the summer, with sporting director Richard Hughes lining up a bid worth up to £8million before seeing him remain on Midtjylland's books, and the Merseyside giants' links are refusing to go away.

Manchester United and La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid have also been among the admirers circling, GMS sources understand, but Tottenham are at a more advanced stage of their pursuit due to having representatives in attendance to see Osorio flourishing in the Danish Superliga.

Tottenham could be forced to contend with further competition from the Bundesliga for the exciting talent, GMS sources recently revealed, and he is edging towards having a potentially career-defining decision to make over whether to embark on a fresh challenge in the coming months.

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