The Spurs Web

Ange Postecoglou admits that Tottenham Hotspur have been handed a big boost, with one of their centre-backs set to return from injury.

Tottenham ravaged by injuries in defence

What has made life really difficult for Postecoglou over recent weeks is not just that Tottenham have an extremely bloated injury list, but the fact that those injuries have been concentrated in a few areas.

Nowhere is the situation as bad as in central defence, with Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero and Ben Davies all being on the treatment table at the same time.

That has meant that Postecoglou has had to make do with a makeshift centre-back pairing of Radu Dragusin and Archie Gray at the back, with the 18-year-old having never played in the heart of defence in senior football before this.

Ange Postecoglou reveals good news on Ben Davies

Davies has been out of action since picking up a hamstring injury in Tottenham’s 1-0 loss to Bournemouth at the start of this month.

Postecoglou has now provided a positive update about the Welshman, confirming that he is now back training with the squad.

Speaking ahead of the Boxing Day fixture against Nottingham Forest, the Tottenham boss revealed that the 31-year-old could feature against Wolves.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Postecoglou said (via Football.London) about the experienced defender: “Yeah, he’s training. Will train today [Christmas Eve] and just can’t risk any more injuries so my gut tells me that’s only two sessions with the team before Boxing Day, so probably wiser to save him for the weekend. But the plan is to have him training and potentially be available.”

Davies’ return is a big boost to Tottenham

While Gray has done much better than many people expected at centre-back, the teenager is evidently not ready just yet to play in that role, given his lack of experience.

Having Davies back into the side to partner Dragusin will elevate Tottenham’s defence, with the Welshman bringing leadership and organisation to the backline.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly informed one club in no uncertain terms that the player they want is not for sale in January.

Spurs forward linked with return to his home country

Over the last couple of weeks, the Brazilian media has speculated on the possibility of Richarlison sealing a return to his former club, Fluminense.

The club’s president, Mario Bittencourt, himself subsequently confirmed last week that they have made contact with Spurs as well as the 27-year-old over a deal.

Additionally, some sources over recent days have suggested that other Brazilian sides, including Flamengo, Corinthians, Palmeiras and Vasco da Gama, have also explored the possibility of signing the Spurs star.

Tottenham make Richarlison’s stance clear in latest meeting

GE Globo now claims that representatives from Spurs and Fluminense met on Friday to explore the possibility of doing a deal.

It is revealed that Richarlison‘s former club ‘did not receive a positive response’ from the North London club, with negotiations falling through.

The outlet explains that Spurs were ‘adamant’ that the striker is not for sale in January and that they are counting on him until the end of the season.

Talks could resume in the summer

GE Globo say that while Tottenham have closed the door on a January deal, there is nothing stopping the talks between the two parties from resuming in the summer.

Fluminense have allegedly made it clear that they are willing to make a cash offer or even agree to other negotiating models, such as preferential options on their players.

Tottenham Hotspur have told one club that they will have to offer considerably more than they are currently willing to if they wish to sign one of their players in January.

Tottenham man linked with shock return to his country

Over recent days, a number of outlets have reported that Fluminense are eyeing a shock move to re-sign Richarlison in January and have even identified him as their number one target.

This was confirmed by the Brazilian club’s president, Mario Bittencourt, a couple of days ago, who revealed that he has been in touch with Spurs and the 27-year-old about a potential transfer.

He further asserted that Tottenham are willing to listen to offers for the striker but admitted that a deal will not be easy to do in January.

Another Brazilian club express interest in Richarlison

UOL now reveal that Flamengo have also shown interest in taking the former Everton man to Brazil in the upcoming transfer window.

In fact, they have allegedly informed Spurs that they are willing to pay €20m (£16.5m) for Richarlison, but that is not deemed to be enough by the Premier League side.

Tottenham have reportedly asked Flamengo to double their offer and pay €40m (£33m) if they wish to sign their number nine.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The outlet adds that the North London club have also made it clear that they will not allow the striker to leave on loan with an option to buy.

Richarlison is not convinced about a return to Brazil

Tottenham’s asking price is not the only thing seemingly holding up the deal, with the player also not thought to be convinced about returning to his homeland right now.

Spurs face a tough challenge as table-topping Liverpool visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in a promising Premier League clash. Will Ange Postecoglou’s men deliver a Christmas miracle or fall victim to the Reds’ ruthless form?

Even while writing this, Son‘s sensational corner kick from Thursday night’s 4-3 win over Manchester United in the Carabao Cup is replaying in my head. Yet, deep down, Fraser Forster‘s fumbles from the same game haunt the joy. It’s the story of Spurs‘ season in a nutshell—moments of brilliance overshadowed by self-inflicted errors.

This Sunday, Spurs welcome Arne Slot’s Liverpool, the table toppers. The Reds have yet to lose an away fixture this season, while 10th-placed Spurs desperately need some consistency if they are to move themselves up the table. The most favourable result will see Spurs moving up to 5th, one step closer to European football.

What time does Tottenham v Liverpool kick-off?

How both teams go into Tottenham v Liverpool

Just a week ago, Spurs were facing Southampton, the league’s bottom-dwellers. Now, they’re up against Liverpool, the table-toppers. It’s been a rollercoaster of a season for Tottenham. Back-to-back wins against Southampton (5-0) and Manchester United (4-3) suggest momentum might be building. However, two losses and a draw in their last five league games show there’s still a long way to go.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are having the time of their lives under Arne Slot. The Dutchman has revitalised the Reds, with only one defeat in 24 games this season which was a loss to Nottingham Forest back in September.

Tottenham Team News

The injury list still remains a concern for Spurs. Ange Postecoglou confirmed that Destiny Udogie is likely to return, while Timo Werner’s availability hinges on recovery from illness. The absentees include Guglielmo Vicario, Ben Davies, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Mikey Moore, Wilson Odobert, and Richarlison. Rodrigo Bentancur will serve the final game of his suspension.

Expect Djed Spence to continue his dream start for Spurs, with two fantastic assists in his first two starts.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Liverpool Team News

Arne Slot rotated his squad in the midweek Carabao Cup win over Southampton, resting key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson Becker. All three are expected to return against Spurs.

Federico Chiesa, Kostas Tsimikas, and Diogo Jota also featured briefly in midweek and should be fully fit. However, Ibrahima Konaté and Conor Bradley remain sidelined due to injuries, while Andy Robertson is back from suspension.

Predicted Tottenham Lineup

Forster; Spence, Dragusin, Gray, Udogie; Kulusevski, Bissouma, Maddison, Johnson; Solanke, Son

Our Prediction

Liverpool’s relentless high press under Arne Slot is one of their most potent weapons. Their midfield operates with precision, constantly winning turnovers high up the pitch. Liverpool average 8.4 successful high turnovers per game, the second-highest in the league. Spurs must ensure they don’t get caught in dangerous areas, particularly with Fraser Forster’s struggles in distribution.

The Reds’ most glaring threat is, of course, Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian King has 17 goals and 12 assists in 23 matches across all competitions this season. His movement off the ball when combined with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s hybrid role, creates overloads on the right. Spurs must find a way to neutralise this. Destiny Udogie’s fitness will be crucial, as his pace and ability to intercept are vital in dealing with Salah’s runs. Spurs may also deploy Yves Bissouma to shield the left flank and disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm in transition.

In attack, Spurs have shown an ability to exploit high lines. Ange Postecoglou’s reliance on quick vertical transitions has borne fruit, with the team scoring nine counter-attacking goals this season—the most in the league surprisingly. Liverpool’s aggressive press leaves space behind their full-backs, which Dejan Kulusevski and Brennan Johnson could exploit. Kulusevski has been Spurs’ creative heartbeat, contributing four goals and creating 36 chances this season. He’ll be key to breaking Liverpool’s defensive structure.

Spurs’ record against Liverpool isn’t very promising—just one win in their last 14 meetings. But if there’s any team capable of derailing Liverpool’s title charge, it’s Spurs. Call it blind optimism or festive cheer, but we’re predicting a narrow home win:

Tottenham 3-2 Liverpool

So, Spurs fans, keep the faith (or maybe just prepare for heartbreak). Either way, Sunday promises fireworks!

Tottenham Hotspur’s defensive woes could soon be eased as the North London club are eyeing a key January transfer window signing who has proven his mettle against some of Europe’s finest attackers.

Tottenham defensive crisis makes for important transfer window

Ange Postecoglou’s second season at Tottenham Hotspur has been marked by an array of defensive injuries, leaving the Australian tactician scrambling for solutions amidst a campaign that promised much but has been hindered by fitness issues.

Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Ben Davies have all been sidelined for extended periods, creating a significant void in the heart of Spurs’ defence.

This defensive frailty has not gone unnoticed, as the need for a left-sided central defender to deputise for the injured van de Ven has become glaringly apparent.

The club’s commitment to addressing these challenges is evident not just in their pursuit of new talent but also in their attempts to secure existing players, such as Romero, whose contract discussions have reportedly centred on making him the club’s top earner.

However, Romero’s desire for Champions League football has added another layer of complexity to Tottenham’s strategic planning.

David Hancko emerges as Tottenham’s January target

TBR Football has now revealed that Tottenham Hotspur have identified David Hancko, Feyenoord’s Slovakian international centre-back, as a prime candidate for their January shopping list.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Hancko, who played a pivotal role in troubling Erling Haaland earlier this season, is seen as an ideal addition to bolster Spurs’ defensive line and provide reliable backup for the injured Micky van de Ven.

Sources close to the club have indicated that Hancko’s price tag, initially set at £35 million during the summer transfer window, is expected to have dropped, making a January deal more viable.

The 27-year-old defender, whose current contract with Feyenoord extends until 2028, has impressed with his composure, physicality, and ability to neutralise high-calibre opposition.

What David Hancko’s stats reveal

An analysis of David Hancko’s per 90 statistics from his performances in the Eredivisie paints a promising picture of the defender’s capabilities.

According to fotmob, Hancko boasts an impressive 81.8% tackle success rate, winning 1.13 tackles per game, his ability to dominate duels is reflected in his 65.3% win rate across 4.13 duels per match, while his aerial prowess is demonstrated by a 64.3% success rate in aerial battles, winning 1.69 per game.

In addition to his tackling and duelling efficiency, Hancko contributes to defensive recoveries with an average of 4.81 recoveries per 90 minutes, his interceptions (1.06) and low number of fouls committed (0.38) further underscore his disciplined approach to defending, while his ability to block shots (0.38 per game) and maintain positional awareness make him a well-rounded option for Tottenham’s backline.

One Ligue 1 star who is reportedly on Tottenham’s radar has refused to close the door on a potential exit from his club.

Ange Postecoglou wants to sign a versatile winger

It emerged a few days ago that Tottenham are prioritising bolstering their attack, with Postecoglou said to be keen on signing a wide-man who can operate in either flank.

It was revealed in that report that Lyon’s Rayan Cherki was one of four wide players that Spurs had identified ahead of the January transfer window.

The 21-year-old, who has emerged as one of the most exciting young attackers in Ligue 1, is shining at Groupama Stadium this season, with five goals and seven assists to his name across all competitions so far.

Rayan Cherki makes an admission about his future

It is not just Tottenham who are fans of Cherki, with the North London club thought to be facing competition from other Premier League sides for the versatile star.

Some sources have revealed that Newcastle and Chelsea have both scouted the winger while Crystal Palace are also big fans of the player.

Amidst the transfer speculation, Cherki was quizzed about his future, and the Lyon man bluntly responded (via Canal Plus): “We’ll see at the end of the season if I’m still here or not.”

MORE SPURS STORIES

Could Spurs sign Cherki in January?

Cherki’s comments would pique the interest of Tottenham and other suitors, who might feel that the time is right to make a move for the winger.

According to a recent report in L’Equipe, Lyon are in a deep financial crisis at the moment and could thus consider cashing in on the France Under-21 international if they receive a decent offer.

Heung-min Son’s remarkable achievement as Tottenham Hotspur’s all-time assist leader has etched his name in the history books, but the story of how he reached this milestone is as fascinating as the record itself. Let us take a look at each player he has assisted along the way.

Heung-min Son breaks Tottenham assist record

Tottenham Hotspur’s captain Heung-min Son has once again written his name into Premier League history, breaking a long-standing record for the North London club.

During a commanding 5-0 triumph over Southampton, Son showcased his exceptional vision and creativity, assisting two critical goals and taking his tally of Premier League assists for Spurs to a record-breaking 68—surpassing Darren Anderton’s long-held mark.

It was a night of celebration for the Spurs faithful, not just for the emphatic victory, but also for witnessing a player who has consistently been at the heart of the team’s success.

Every player Heung-Min Son assisted for record Spurs tally

According to a detailed breakdown by Ayudi on X, the list of players Son has assisted in the Premier League includes a who’s who of Tottenham stars past and present.

The list begins with Harry Kane, who has been on the receiving end of 23 assists from Son—a partnership that has been lauded as one of the greatest in Premier League history.

Other notable players include Dele Alli with seven assists and James Maddison and Brennan Johnson, each with four, further highlighting Son’s versatility in adapting to new attacking partners.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The complete list reveals the breadth of Son’s impact:

What this says about Son’s legacy

This remarkable list of assists underscores Heung-min Son’s longevity and the enduring quality of his contributions to Tottenham Hotspur.

Many of the players he has assisted have since departed the club, yet Son remains not only a pivotal figure on the pitch but also a leader—having taken on the captaincy this season.

His consistency in both performance and fitness has allowed him to build partnerships with a host of players, each benefiting from his vision and selflessness.

If Son can lead this Tottenham side to silverware, his status as a club legend will be cemented beyond any debate.

As the January transfer window approaches, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly turning their attention to the EFL in search of a rising-star goalkeeper who could potentially secure the number-one jersey in the years to come.

Tottenham’s goalkeeping dilemma

The goalkeeping department at Tottenham Hotspur has been under intense scrutiny this season, with Guglielmo Vicario’s performances dividing opinions among fans and pundits alike.

While the Italian’s shot-stopping abilities have been evident, his struggles with commanding the box during set pieces have raised significant concerns.

Adding to the concern is Vicario’s long-term absence after undergoing surgery to address a fractured ankle, a blow that has left Tottenham relying on 36-year-old Fraser Forster.

While Forster has provided reliable cover, making eight appearances across all competitions this season, there is no escaping the reality that his advancing age makes him a short-term solution rather than a long-term fix.

In light of these challenges, Tottenham’s need for reinforcements in the goalkeeping department has become glaringly apparent.

The club’s hierarchy appears to have recognised the necessity of planning for the future by targeting a younger goalkeeper who can be developed into their first-choice shot-stopper in the coming years. This proactive approach signals the club’s intent to address weaknesses and build depth in a crucial area.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Spurs set sights on Anthony Patterson and James Trafford

Tottenham are reportedly exploring options in the EFL as they aim to identify a promising goalkeeper who could serve as both a long-term rival and eventual successor to Guglielmo Vicario.

According to Football Insider, the club has already shortlisted Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson, aged 24, and Burnley’s James Trafford, aged 22, as potential targets for the upcoming transfer window.

Pete O’Rourke, senior correspondent for Football Insider, shared insights on the club’s strategy during a recent edition of the Inside Track podcast.

He revealed that Tottenham are “definitely” looking to strengthen their goalkeeping options, particularly if the right player becomes available in January.

“Spurs are set to look in the EFL for a new shot-stopper who they can develop into their future number one,” O’Rourke explained, emphasising the club’s long-term vision.

While the immediate goal may be to provide competition for Vicario, the broader aim is to secure a player who could eventually take over the reins as Tottenham’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Long-term planning signals a shift in strategy

The focus on young talent reflects Tottenham’s desire to build sustainably under Ange Postecoglou. Both Patterson and Trafford have looked good at their respective clubs, and their potential acquisition would signal a commitment to investing in players who can grow alongside the team’s evolving project.

However, any move will depend on availability and negotiations during the January transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur face Manchester United in a fiery EFL Cup quarter-final as Ange Postecoglou looks to edge one step closer to his first trophy in charge of Spurs.

Another Manchester club, another chance to paint the town white. Spurs have already embarrassed both Manchester clubs away in the league this season with back-to-back clean sheets: a 3-0 win over United and an emphatic 4-0 against City. Now, we welcome Manchester United to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with a semi-final spot on the line.

While Spurs come off a 5-0 thumping of Southampton that ended our winless streak, United arrive brimming with confidence after a dramatic derby victory over City. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and both sides have their fair share of issues to contend with. Let’s dive in.

What time does Tottenham v Manchester United kick-off?

How both teams go into Tottenham v Manchester United

Tottenham saw their winless drought come to an end with an extraordinary 5-0 display against Southampton. Nevertheless, we still have just one win, two draws, and two losses in our previous five games. Those losses sting because we didn’t deserve them.

In fact, every single loss of ours has only been by a one-goal margin across all competitions, as our goal difference clearly demonstrates. Apart from the top two teams (Liverpool and Chelsea), no other team has a better goal difference than ours. Yet, we ironically sit in 10th place—that’s Tottenham summed up for you.

All our losses have stemmed from failing to convert chances, a predictable playstyle failing to yield a breakthrough, or self-inflicted errors. Had we avoided these mistakes, we’d be strong title contenders by now. Still, it is what it is.

United, under Ruben Amorim, seem to have rediscovered some rhythm. After a chaotic start to the season, they’ve managed three wins in their last five matches, including a last-gasp victory over rivals City. That said, they still remain inconsistent and vulnerable when keeping possession and transitioning smoothly, something Spurs can exploit with the right game plan.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Tottenham Team News

Ange Postecoglou has plenty of headaches when it comes to team selection. Destiny Udogie remains a doubt after limping off against Southampton, while Ben Davies, despite nearing a return, is unlikely to feature. Spurs are also without Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Rodrigo Bentancur (serving his sixth match of a seven-game ban), and Guglielmo Vicario. Djed Spence was spotted limping post-match, but reports suggest it could be down to fatigue rather than an injury.

With only three fit senior defenders, Ange may field a back four of Pedro Porro, Radu Drăgușin, Archie Gray, and Djed Spence. Alfie Dorrington could also see some minutes if the need arises. Meanwhile, Mikey Moore’s availability depends on his recovery from illness, and Son Heung-min is expected to return to the starting XI after being subbed off early against Southampton to rest.

Manchester United Team News

United’s list of doubts is long but manageable. Mason Mount’s injury is unclear. Rashford and Garnacho were dropped against City for tactical reasons, and Noussair Mazraoui left the derby limping. Luke Shaw remains the only confirmed absentee.

Former Spurs star Christian Eriksen, who didn’t feature against City, is likely to play. His record in the Carabao Cup is exceptional, with three goal involvements in a single game this season. Add to that Amad Diallo’s electric form, and United’s attack looks sharp. Spurs fans can only hope Amorim benches Diallo out of some misguided rotational generosity (on a serious note, start Antony instead—we won’t complain).

Predicted Tottenham Line-Up

Forster; Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence; Maddison, Bissouma, Kulusevski; Johnson, Son, Solanke

Our Prediction

Unfortunately, we’ve drawn the hardest opponent compared to the ones the other Big Six clubs have received, and this will undoubtedly be an interesting fixture. The season hasn’t been great for either of us as both sides battle inconsistencies. At least we’re on the upper half of the table.

This is a game of margins. Both teams are brimming with confidence after key wins, but Spurs have the home advantage and a manager who takes the Carabao Cup seriously. Ange knows this is our best shot at silverware, and he won’t take any risks.

Amorim’s tactical approach is similar yet distinct from Postecoglou’s. While both managers favour attacking football, United’s 3-4-3 formation prioritises defensive solidity, with inverted wingbacks providing width and midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte dictating play. For Spurs fans, it’s a familiar sight—Pedro Porro thrived under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon and will now face his former mentor.

Postecoglou’s pivotal midfield system, with two attacking midfielders and one holding player, could stretch United’s back three.

Expect goals, drama, and a nail-biter, but Spurs should edge it—if only because Ange doesn’t do half-measures when a trophy is in sight.

Oliver Skipp admits there was disappointment involved when he made the decision to leave Tottenham in the summer, but insists it was a choice he had to make for the sake of his career.

Spurs academy graduate’s departure was inevitable

It did not come as a surprise when Tottenham decided to accept a £20m offer from Leicester City for Oliver Skipp back in the summer.

Ange Postecoglou had reinforced his midfield with exciting young additions and there were question marks over whether Skipp was a good fit for the Australian’s system.

The 24-year-old, who had been at Hotspur Way since the age of eight, and progressed through the age group ranks, said his goodbyes to his boyhood club, linking up with former teammate Harry Winks at the King Power Stadium.

Oliver Skipp opens up on decision to leave Tottenham

Oliver Skipp admits that it was not an easy decision to make, explaining that he grew up in a family of Tottenham fans and only ever dreamed of playing for the North London club. However, the midfielder confessed that it was a decision that he had to make in order to progress his own career.

When asked about the decision to leave N17, Skipp told The Athletic: “It was hard. It’s a club that’s been in my family and in my heart since I was young. My grandparents are all fans, and my parents.

“But as a player, you know when your time has come. I was grateful for the opportunities I got at Spurs and I made over 100 appearances that, as a boy growing up, was something you could only dream of.

MORE SPURS STORIES

“But there comes a time where you know the time is right and I felt this summer that it was the perfect opportunity to experience something else and to challenge myself. It was mixed emotions, but I was ready to move on.”

Oliver Skipp admits his best is yet to come

The former Tottenham man acknowledged that Leicester fans have not seen the best of him yet, insisting that he knows he can do better.

However, the combative midfielder is confident that it is only a matter of time before he starts showing what he can do for the Foxes.

When asked about his own displays this season, Skipp said: “I still don’t want to make an excuse. I have been disappointed in my (Leicester) performances so far and I still feel like I could have performed better, but I’m confident that that will come and when I, hopefully, get a run of games, I can show what I can do.

“It takes an adjustment period, getting used to the surroundings, the new team-mates, it’s only natural it takes a while to settle in, but it’s one that I’m confident I can overcome.”