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The underlying numbers from Xavi Simons’ display against Atletico Madrid suggest the midfielder is hitting form at just the right time for Tottenham, who are in the midst of a relegation scrap.

Tottenham Hotspur fell short on Wednesday night in their attempt to pull back the three-goal deficit they suffered in the first leg of their round of 16 tie with Atletico Madrid.

Spurs were victorious yesterday, beating Diego Simeone’s men 3-2, but that was not enough to secure a place in the quarter-final against Barcelona.

Attention will now turn to the Premier League for Tottenham for the remainder of the season following their elimination from all cup competitions.

Tottenham star Xavi Simons shines despite Atletico Madrid exit

While crashing out of the Champions League will sting, Spurs can draw some comfort from the fight their players showed on the night.

It was one of their better displays this season, and right at the heart of it was summer signing Xavi Simons.

The Dutchman was impressive last night, grabbing a brace and constantly looking to make things happen as Tottenham chased the game. It was one of his best performances in a Spurs shirt, and the underlying numbers back that up.

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According to FotMob, no player on the pitch was rated higher than Simons on Wednesday, even ahead of Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, who registered a goal and an assist.

The Tottenham number seven was immense on the night, creating chances, taking shots and helping out in defence. The underlying numbers prove that he is ready for what is set to be a relegation scrap for the rest of the season.

Spurs need Xavi Simons to deliver in Premier League run-in

Seeing Simons produce such displays is not entirely surprising, especially in the Champions League, where he has often looked sharp for Tottenham.

However, it is in the Premier League where the 22-year-old has struggled at times, with the physical nature of English football something the Dutchman is still adapting to.

The quality is there, though, and the signs are positive. If Simons can handle the demands of English football, he will be one of the better signings in Spurs’ recent history.

Tottenham Hotspur supporters have been left raving about Archie Gray following a lively showing against Atletico Madrid.

There is an argument to be made that Tottenham Hotspur put in their best performance of the season against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night, a game they won 3-2.

It is disappointing that such a display came about eight months into the campaign, but it is better late than never for the Lilywhites, who still have much to play for this season.

Several Spurs players looked sharper and impressed against the Spanish outfit, including Archie Gray, who was our highest-rated player against Atletico Madrid.

Tottenham fans react to Archie Gray performance against Atletico Madrid

Gray grabbed the assist for Tottenham’s second on the night, but it was not just his goal contribution that made his performance stand out.

It was a complete display from the 20-year-old, who looked like a midfield maestro and a product of the famous La Masia academy. Talk about pausa, composure and dictating tempo, the youngster displayed it all.

Tottenham fans have now handed praise to Gray following what can only be described as a coming-of-age performance, with many believing the midfielder has the makings of a top player.

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One fan said, “This guy will be our captain some day. How could you not love him?!”, while another kept it brief, saying: “Very technically gifted”.

Further praise continued, with one supporter adding: “Fantastic feet, calm mind. Became a true baller tonight. Long may it continue!!”, while another urged for international recognition: “I’d take him to World Cup for England instead of players like Henderson”.

Another added: “Showed why he’s so highly rated playing like that after just turning 20 in CL last 16 game. He’s been played all over, hammered by some fans, been good and bad but nothing has seemed to phase him. I’m sure he’s going to be an elite CM”.

The praise continued to pour in, with one fan commenting, “Mature, composed, and full of quality against a top team. A huge talent and so important for the remaining games.”

More calls for international recognition soon followed, with another adding: “If he keeps up this form, he’ll be in the Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton debate. We might even have to start talking about the World Cup.”

Another supporter wrote: “World-class. When he plays in his position, he always delivers. This was his best game for Tottenham so far, and he will only improve. I hope he stays at the club for many more years – he could be our future captain.”

Meanwhile, a final fan summed up the mood, posting: “He’s becoming the player we all knew he would be – and there’s so much more to come. COYS!”

Spurs must build around Archie Gray influence under Igor Tudor

There is no denying that Archie Gray will be vital for Tottenham in the coming games this season, as Spurs continue to fight to remain in the Premier League.

The midfielder seems to be finding some joy working under the tutelage of Igor Tudor, who is bringing out his best qualities.

Gray is vital and can be used in a host of positions, but Tudor does not seem to be restricting the midfielder to just sitting in front of the defence.

He appears to be given the freedom to drop deep, help in build-up and then link up with the ten, helping connect the midfield with the attack.

Tottenham Hotspur could be handed a timely advantage ahead of a crucial Premier League clash, with their relegation rivals facing a demanding European trip.

Tottenham Hotspur now have just the Premier League to worry about following their Champions League exit on Wednesday night.

Spurs put up a good fight against Atletico Madrid but ultimately fell short, losing 7-5 on aggregate despite their 3-2 win in the second leg.

That elimination now means that Tottenham are set to miss out on Champions League football next season, given their league struggles, but there is still much to play for in the Premier League.

Tottenham boost as Nottingham Forest face FC Midtjylland before Premier League clash

This weekend, Spurs are set to take on Nottingham Forest in what is a relegation six-pointer.

The two sides sit just above the relegation zone, level on points, but Tottenham are in 16th place ahead of Forest and West Ham by a point. Spurs also have a superior goal difference.

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A victory against the Tricky Trees on Sunday would see Spurs open up a four-point gap and could potentially push Forest into 18th, should West Ham United win their own match.

With Vitor Pereira’s side still in Europe, Tottenham could now be about to have an edge coming into this encounter. Nottingham Forest are set to make a long trip to Denmark to take on FC Midtjylland in the Europa League.

Forest are a goal down and chasing the tie, and could even be forced into extra time, which may give Spurs a further advantage.

Tottenham also have the added day’s rest, having played on Wednesday night in their own European tie, as opposed to Forest, who play on Thursday.

Spurs must capitalise on scheduling advantage against Nottingham Forest

Spurs welcomed Atletico Madrid to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, meaning they did not have to travel.

At the weekend, Tottenham will again stay at home as they host Forest on their own turf, adding to their advantage.

Vitor Pereira also has injuries to contend with heading into the weekend’s game, while Tottenham, although depleted, are set to be handed a few boosts with several of their stars now returning.

It feels like an advantage Spurs must take as they continue their relegation fight.

Tottenham Hotspur’s injury crisis appears to be easing at a crucial point in the season, with Spurs finally seeing numbers return ahead of their defining Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest.

The tie between Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid might have ended in defeat for Spurs, but there were signs of fight as the Lilywhites secured a 3-2 victory on the night.

Several players stood out, including Archie Gray, who was sensational against Atleti, alongside Xavi Simons, who grabbed a brace.

A few others also returned from injury for Spurs in this clash, which is set to bolster their ranks heading into the weekend game against Nottingham Forest.

Tottenham injury boost sees eight players return ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Against Atletico Madrid, Spurs were without 11 players due to injuries, suspensions and ineligibility affecting several of their stars. In the match vs Liverpool, Tottenham were without a whopping 13 players!

This weekend, however, that number is set to be halved, with seven players expected to be back for the game against Nottingham Forest.

Richarlison was suspended against Atletico Madrid for the second-leg encounter following his first-leg booking, and with that suspension now served in Europe, he is set to return this Sunday.

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Dominic Solanke missed out against Atleti because of a minor hip injury, and with it only a small issue, Spurs will hope he returns for Sunday’s encounter.

Souza was ineligible for the Champions League game as he was not registered, but should be back in the Tottenham squad this weekend.

Joao Palhinha came off worse from a clash of heads with Cristian Romero and missed out on Wednesday, but should be available for selection on Sunday.

Romero, Conor Gallagher, Lucas Bergvall and Destiny Udogie, who all made their returns on Wednesday, should also be in contention for the Premier League clash.

Meanwhile, several players remain sidelined, with Dejan Kulusevski, Rodrigo Bentancur, Yves Bissouma, Ben Davies, Wilson Odobert and James Maddison all still out.

Mohammed Kudus could be the next to return, with a potential return pencilled in for after the international break.

Spurs must capitalise on momentum in Nottingham Forest fixture

The injury boost, alongside the victory against Atleti, should provide enough momentum for Spurs heading into the game against Nottingham Forest.

That encounter is as big as it gets for the Lilywhites this season, as defeat could send them down into 18th place should West Ham United win their own game.

The Hammers face a struggling Aston Villa in their league fixture and will kick off at the same time Spurs play on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League campaign was brought to an end by Atletico Madrid, who secured a 7-5 aggregate win despite Spurs winning 3-2 on the night.

Here are five things we learned from Tottenham 3-2 Atletico Madrid:

Tottenham positives as Igor Tudor secures first Spurs win

Following the draw with Liverpool last weekend, Igor Tudor mentioned that he hoped it would spark something in his Tottenham side, and it did.

Spurs might have lost the tie, but getting a victory over a strong Atletico Madrid side will do their confidence a lot of good.

It marked Tottenham’s first win since 28 January and their first victory under interim boss Tudor.

The former Juventus man has his players showing belief and confidence, which will be key as they look to fight for their Premier League status for the remainder of the season.

Spurs now have much-needed momentum heading into an important relegation clash this weekend.

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Archie Gray shines for Spurs vs Atletico Madrid

For most of this season, Archie Gray has received praise for his displays in midfield and defence.

Spurs fans were quick to highlight Gray’s passion and hard work after his display against Crystal Palace a few weeks back, while Dominic Solanke also named Gray as one of the leaders in the dressing room.

However, tonight’s display was not just about effort. Gray oozed class in midfield, playing with the composure of a La Masia graduate.

The midfielder, who has only just turned 20, showed courage and discipline in possession, dropping deep to aid build-up play while also contributing in the final third.

He grabbed the assist for Simon’s first and showed neat dribbling in the build-up to Mathys Tel’s late chance in the first half.

It indeed was a coming-of-age performance for the young midfielder who is growing into a Tottenham shirt. Spurs will be hoping they can keep in north London for much longer, as Gray is attracting interest from clubs in Europe.

Tottenham boost as Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall return from injury

Despite the overall defeat, it was a night with positives, one of which was the return of Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall.

The pair had spent extended periods on the sidelines but returned to competitive action, which is a boost for Spurs heading into the remainder of the season.

Bergvall came on for Pedro Porro and played 15 minutes, while Udogie replaced Radu Dragusin and got over 20 minutes.

There were no further injuries picked up in this game, which, given Tottenham’s predicament this season, is cause for celebration.

Spurs attacking depth tested without Dominic Solanke and Richarlison

Tottenham put up a fight, and many fans will applaud their effort, with the players showing belief and determination throughout.

However, there was a sense that Spurs did not quite have the full attacking options needed to complete the comeback. At 2-1 and even at 1-0 at half-time, Spurs lacked a focal point to call on from the bench to join in the attack.

Dominic Solanke was unavailable due to a minor hip problem, while Richarlison was suspended, and their absence was felt. You do feel that, had both players been available, Tottenham could have scored a few more goals.

Spurs unbeaten European home record extended vs Atletico Madrid

Spurs might not have the best home record in the Premier League, but in Europe at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, they continue to avoid defeat.

Coming into this tie, Spurs were 25 games unbeaten at home in Europe, a run stretching back to 2020.

They extended that record to 26 games with the 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid, even though it was not enough to see them through.

They return to the same ground this weekend to face Nottingham Forest, and if they can carry that European form, they may secure another result.

The final whistle has sounded in the game between Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League second-leg round of 16 tie, and the player ratings are in.

Tottenham managed to go in front three times in this game thanks to a Randal Kolo Muani goal and a Xavi Simons brace, but that was not enough as Atletico Madrid won the tie on aggregate 7-5.

Let us take a look at our Tottenham 3-2 Atletico Madrid player ratings.

Guglielmo Vicario – The Italian was forced into a couple of saves, notably when he kept Spurs in the lead after a shot from Atletico Madrid was deflected by Cristian Romero. In the second half, though, he was well beaten by Julian Alvarez and David Hancko. 7.

Radu Dragusin – He put in a good shift against Ademola Lookman in the first half, keeping the Atletico Madrid man quiet while also offering some threat with his long throws. In the second half, he was taken off for the returning Destiny Udogie. 6.5.

Cristian Romero – In the first forty-five minutes, he made a crucial interception that prevented Lookman from tapping into an empty net at the back post. In the second half, he made a similar block, preventing another back-post tap-in. He did, however, pick up a yellow card after a lunging challenge in midfield. 7.

Micky van de Ven – The centre-back had a quiet first half with a few threats to deal with. In the second half, though, he could have done better when Atletico Madrid broke, and Alvarez scored, with the Dutchman appearing to stick out a lazy leg. 6.5.

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Djed Spence – He put in a decent shift on both flanks, starting on the left and offering width while joining the attack. He was then moved to the right after Udogie’s introduction, where at times Alvarez got the better of him, although one effort was blocked by Romero. 7.

Pedro Porro – The full-back turned right midfielder came very close to making it 3-1 for Tottenham, as Simons’ pass found him free in the box, but his outside-of-the-boot effort was superbly saved by Musso. 7.

Archie Gray – The youngster carried his impressive first-half display into the second, and his endeavours were rewarded as he registered the assist for Spurs’ second of the night. He was head and shoulders above many who lined up in midfield. 9.

Pape Matar Sarr – In the first half, Sarr featured alongside Gray and often had the licence to push forward. His best work came defensively, making interceptions in midfield and winning aerial duels. In the second half, his role changed as he became the lone midfielder while Gray pushed up, although he should have done better defending the corner that led to Atletico Madrid’s second, losing his man at the near post. 7.

Xavi Simons – The Dutchman showed intent in the first half, often trying to be positive in possession, and he created a good chance for Mathys Tel, who failed to convert. In the second half, he maintained that intensity, scoring Spurs’ second before creating a chance for Porro. He added his second of the night from the penalty spot after winning the spot-kick. 8.5.

Mathys Tel – The wide forward was electric in the first half and provided the assist for Spurs’ opener. He was direct, looked to beat his man, and got several shots away. In the second half, his influence faded as Spurs attacked more down the right. 7.5.

Randal Kolo Muani – He took his goal well in the first half, guiding home a header from Tel’s cross. In the second half, though, he had little impact. Had a big chance to score at the end and make it 6-7 in the tie, but saw his effort blocked. 7.

Substitutes

Destiny Udogie – Came on and managed to get a solid 20-plus minutes at left-back for Tottenham. He joined the attack but did not create anything noteworthy, eventually picking up a booking. 6.

Lucas Bervall – The Swede was given 15 minutes of action following his return from injury. He came on for Porro and moved straight into midfield. N/A.

Conor Gallagher – The former Atleti man replaced an impressive Archie Gray, marking his return from illness. N/A.

Kevin Danso – With one eye on the weekend, Danso came on for Romero in the final minutes of the game. N/A.

The first half of Champions League action has just come to a close between Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham find themselves a goal up after Randal Kolo Muani struck in the first half, as they look to turn around a three-goal deficit in the second leg of their round of 16 tie with Atletico Madrid.

Let’s take a look at how the individual players got on:

Guglielmo Vicario – He was barely threatened by Atletico Madrid for most of the half. The visitors did find the back of the net, but it was ruled out for offside. Late in the first half, he was forced into a save after an Atleti effort from range was deflected by Romero. 7

Radu Dragusin – The centre-back was deployed at right-back, as Igor Tudor opted to set up in a 4-4-2 system, and he stuck to his task well, keeping Ademola Lookman quiet on the wing. He also offered a set-piece threat with his long throw, one of which led to a Mathys Tel chance, but his shot was straight at Musso 7.

Cristian Romero – Back in the side, he made a vital block to prevent a certain goal following Marcos Llorente’s cross from the byline aimed at Lookman at the back post, but Romero was there to intercept. 6.

Micky van de Ven – A quieter evening for the Dutchman, who early on struggled to deal with Llorente, who found joy down Spurs’ left. As the game went on, however, the Atletico Madrid man found less success. 6.

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Djed Spence – The wing-back has been given licence to go forward, and he took it, often offering width to Tottenham’s attack. Defensively, though, he struggled to deal with Marcos Llorente, who often got in behind Spurs’ defence from that side. 5.

Pedro Porro – Being used as a right midfielder as opposed to a full-back, he has managed to get forward a few times to put crosses into the box, but none were threatening. 6.

Archie Gray – The youngster has kept things ticking in the middle of the park, often showing for the ball before pushing into the final third to join the attack. A very mature and confident display so far. 7.5.

Pape Matar Sarr – The Senegal international has complemented his midfield partner well, often getting stuck into tackles and winning his share of aerial duels. 7.

Xavi Simons – He has the freedom to float around in midfield and has shown a willingness to make things happen, but is often guilty of holding on to the ball for too long. He did block Marcos Llorente’s effort from troubling Vicario, while later finding Tel in space, although the chance was not taken. 6.

Mathys Tel – The Frenchman started on the left and linked up well with Djed Spence down that flank. He registered Spurs’ first effort on target, although it was a tame one that Musso dealt with comfortably. He was the liveliest of Tottenham’s attackers, repeatedly taking on his man and getting shots away. He eventually grabbed the assist for Spurs’ first goal, with his cross finding Muani unmarked in the box. He had a good chance to make it two after Simons played a lovely first-time pass into him, but he failed to make the most of the opportunity. He should have squared it for one of the two Tottenham players waiting in the box 8.

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed their starting XI for the crucial Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, with Igor Tudor’s side facing a daunting task in north London.

It is still all to play for at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium tonight as Igor Tudor’s men look to overturn a three-goal deficit in the second-leg tie of their Champions League round of 16 encounter with Atletico Madrid.

Micky van de Ven made it clear that Spurs have nothing to lose going into this tie and, as such, we can expect a response.

Igor Tudor believes a comeback is possible for Tottenham, and now it remains to be seen how it unfolds on the pitch.

Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero return

Spurs were handed an injury boost coming into this round of 16 second-leg matchup, with Cristian Romero back in the side after a concussion injury.

Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall were spotted in training ahead of Tottenham’s clash with Atleti and are fit enough to make the bench.

However, for Joao Palhinha, the tie comes a little too soon and has missed out selection.

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While ten players still remain sidelined because of injuries, Tudor will be hoping the players he has at his disposal are enough for Tottenham to pull off what is a massive task.

Tonight, Spurs need to lead by a three-goal margin to force extra time and penalties, or win by at least a four-goal margin to progress and face either Barcelona or Newcastle United.

This is the Tottenham XI that takes to the pitch tonight at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium:

TOTTENHAM XI: Vicario; Pedro Porro, Romero, Dragusin, Van de Ven, Spence; Gray, Sarr, Tel, Xavi Simons; Kolo Muani.

Subs: Kinsky, Austin, Danso, Udogie, Bergvall, Gallagher, Olusesi, Kyerematen, Rowswell.

ATLETICO MADRID XI: Musso; Molina, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Marcos Llorente, Johnny Cardoso, Lookman; Griezmann, Julián Álvarez.

Spurs face huge task in Champions League second leg

This is a big game for Spurs, and getting a result here, even if they do not make it to the quarter-finals, will serve as a boost going into the remaining fixtures this season.

The draw against Liverpool was a massive boost for Tottenham, one they now hope will spark their season.

Tottenham Hotspur have identified a budding Belgian midfield starlet as someone who can fill a crucial hole in their squad, but they face plenty of competition for his services.

Spurs have secured some extremely talented young midfielders for relative discounts over recent years, with Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray, and Pape Sarr all arguably worth more than what the Lilywhites paid for them.

Tottenham are now looking to repeat the trick again with a 17-year-old who has been taking Belgian football by storm.

Over recent months, it has been widely reported that Spurs have set their sights on an Anderlecht youngster, whose reputation is rising rapidly, but the Lilywhites will not have a free run at the player.

Three Premier League clubs ready to challenge Tottenham for Nathan De Cat

It was previously reported that Johan Lange is driving Tottenham’s pursuit of Nathan De Cat, who is continuing to turn a lot of heads with his performances in the Jupiler Pro League.

A new report in Fussball Daten has now revealed that Spurs are indeed keen on landing the teenager and have sent scouts to Belgium recently to run the rule over him.

It is claimed that Tottenham see De Cat as the ‘ideal deep-lying playmaker’ for their system, but they face competition from Man United, who have also scouted the youngster.

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Additionally, it is revealed that the midfielder’s statistics on ball recovery and progressive passing have also piqued the interest of both Aston Villa and Brighton.

How much is De Cat likely to cost this summer?

Fussball Daten say that there is also a ‘Bundesliga offensive’ for a Belgium Under-18 international, who is on the radars of Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen.

De Cat’s current deal at Anderlecht only runs until the summer of 2027, but Anderlecht have no intention of selling him for a cut-price fee this summer.

The Belgian club are only expected to entertain offers in the region of €30m-€35m (£26m-£30.2m) for the midfielder, which would make the deal a record transfer for any teenager from the division.

Igor Tudor has issued an update on Conor Gallagher’s condition ahead of Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League clash, with the midfielder facing a late fitness test.

It has been good news on the injury front for Tottenham Hotspur as several of their injured stars are nearing a return.

Igor Tudor confirmed earlier today that three of Tottenham’s injured players are set to make the bench on Wednesday night against Atletico Madrid, but for Joao Palhinha, it remains touch-and-go.

That is a big boost for Spurs, who were once set to be without 13 senior players, with the number now reduced to ten.

Ahead of the Atletico Madrid clash, Igor Tudor has now provided another injury update, this time on Conor Gallagher, who is dealing with an illness.

The former Atleti man missed the weekend encounter against Liverpool and remains a doubt for Wednesday’s game in the Champions League, with Tudor revealing it is touch-and-go with the midfielder.

Providing an update on Gallagher’s condition, Tudor explained the situation when speaking about his availability.

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He told football.london: “We see today what we can do because he has, as you know, probably asthma problems. He has some virus to make some not nice things, so we are going to see tomorrow if he is able to go on the bench. Nothing like a danger, but still he is not able to play.”

Spurs could rely on Pape Matar Sarr and Archie Gray

Gallagher’s return will be a welcome bonus for Tottenham, who will be desperate to get all the help they can in the run-in.

But Tudor might not be overly worried, as his two young midfielders, Pape Matar Sarr and Archie Gray have stepped up in different moments this season.

Both Gray and Pape Sarr were impressive against Liverpool, with Tudor left full of praise for the two young midfielders.