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Liverpool urged to move for Van de Ven as Dutch icon hails ‘ideal successor’ to Van Dijk

Tottenham Hotspur are facing renewed uncertainty over the future of Micky van de Ven, with growing calls from within Dutch football suggesting Liverpool should make the talented defender their next marquee signing.

Van de Ven attracting admiration after rapid rise

Since his arrival at Tottenham, Van de Ven has transformed into one of Europe’s most dynamic young defenders. His blend of speed, strength, and composure has made him indispensable to Ange Postecoglou’s side, not only anchoring the back line but also chipping in with crucial goals — six in all competitions so far this season.

With Cristian Romero sidelined earlier in the campaign, the Dutchman wore the captain’s armband on several occasions, underlining his growing influence both on and off the pitch. It is little surprise, then, that Spurs are eager to secure him on a new long-term deal. However, reports suggest that negotiations are yet to progress, and that delay has prompted speculation from some of the game’s most respected voices.

Boulahrouz tips Van de Ven as Van Dijk’s natural heir

Former Chelsea and Netherlands defender Khalid Boulahrouz has publicly backed Van de Ven to become both Liverpool’s and the Dutch national team’s long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk. Speaking to ESPN NL, Boulahrouz praised Van de Ven’s defensive maturity and physical dominance, suggesting that he is already operating at an elite level.

“He really stands out,” Boulahrouz said. “He’s physically strong and incredibly fast. Opponents know that, so they don’t even try to get past him anymore. He could be better on the ball sometimes; he makes the occasional mistake. But overall, I think he’s fantastic. I think he’s the ideal successor to Virgil van Dijk, both for the Dutch national team and Liverpool.”

The former Netherlands international also pointed to Van Dijk’s age and workload as factors that could eventually influence Liverpool’s transfer plans. “The question is what Virgil will do after the World Cup. When you’ve been playing in the Premier League for years, your body has taken a beating. You might start longing to take it a bit easier,” Boulahrouz added.

Van Dijk’s leadership remains vital to Liverpool

Despite Boulahrouz’s comments, Van Dijk remains central to Liverpool’s ambitions under Arne Slot. The 34-year-old signed a contract extension earlier this year, tying him to Anfield until 2027. He continues to marshal the defence with his trademark authority and composure, keeping himself ahead of Ibrahima Konaté and Jarell Quansah in the pecking order.

However, there is a growing sense within Dutch circles that Liverpool will eventually need to plan for succession. Van de Ven, with his raw pace and anticipation, appears the natural candidate. His comfort on the left side of central defence could also allow Van Dijk to shift to the right, potentially creating a formidable partnership rather than a handover.

Spurs face key decision amid growing attention

For Tottenham, the immediate priority is to extend Van de Ven’s contract and fend off suitors. The north London club know that once Europe’s elite begin circling, the situation could escalate quickly. Van de Ven’s market value has soared following his stellar performances domestically and in Europe, and losing him would be a significant blow to Postecoglou’s evolving project.

While Liverpool’s recruitment team — led by Richard Hughes — have made no formal move, admiration for Van de Ven is widespread. Should Van Dijk begin to wind down his Premier League career in the coming seasons, a move for his compatriot could align perfectly with Liverpool’s next defensive rebuild.

For now, Tottenham’s focus must be retention, not reaction. Yet as Boulahrouz pointed out, the Dutch heir to Van Dijk’s throne may already be flourishing in north London.

Liverpool and Spurs Prepare for Transfer Battle Over Nathan Collins and Marc Guehi

Liverpool’s defensive plans are under scrutiny once again as the club looks to strengthen its backline in the coming transfer windows. With Giovanni Leoni ruled out for the season after suffering a serious knee injury on debut, the Reds’ options at centre-back have been reduced to just three senior players — Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez.

As the January window approaches, Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, are intensifying their search for reinforcements. Two names have emerged prominently on their radar: Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace and Brentford captain Nathan Collins — though Tottenham Hotspur may have a major say in how this story unfolds.

Guehi’s situation sparks renewed interest

Liverpool’s interest in Marc Guehi is long-standing. The club made an offer of around £35 million for the Crystal Palace captain late in the summer window, but the bid was rejected as Palace were unable to secure a suitable replacement.

Guehi, 25, remains one of the most consistent defenders in the Premier League and is viewed as a leader both at club level and with England. His contract runs until 2026, but that timeline has not discouraged suitors. Tottenham have also shown intent, and both clubs could return for him in January amid growing competition across the league for proven defenders.

While Guehi’s defensive intelligence and calmness under pressure make him a logical target, Liverpool’s scouting department have also broadened their focus. The name that continues to gain traction inside Anfield circles is Nathan Collins.

Collins impressing as Brentford captain

Since arriving at Brentford from Wolves in 2023 for a club-record £24 million, Collins has developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders. His consistency has not gone unnoticed — the 24-year-old played every minute of last season’s campaign and was handed the captain’s armband by new manager Keith Andrews this summer.

With a contract stretching until 2029, Brentford are in no rush to sell. Yet, their history of allowing top performers to leave at the right time — including Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbeumo — suggests a deal could become realistic should a significant offer arrive.

Collins’ blend of aerial dominance, composure in possession and leadership qualities make him an ideal profile for Liverpool’s defensive evolution under Arne Slot. The Reds’ recruitment analysts reportedly view him as a long-term successor to van Dijk, while his Premier League experience ensures minimal adaptation risk.

Tottenham’s advantage and Liverpool’s response

Tottenham’s interest in Collins stems from their familiarity with the player. Thomas Frank, now Spurs’ head coach, previously oversaw the Irishman’s development at Brentford and remains an admirer of his qualities. Spurs’ ongoing rebuild in central defence — following the departure of several senior players — could see them move aggressively for the Brentford captain.

However, Liverpool’s urgency for depth at centre-back, coupled with the club’s well-documented ability to persuade targets through long-term planning, places them firmly in the race. Sources close to both clubs expect monitoring to continue through the season, with bids possible next summer should Collins maintain his upward trajectory.

Having already made 32 appearances for the Republic of Ireland and scored twice, Collins represents both current reliability and future potential. Whether Liverpool or Spurs make the first decisive move could depend on how both sides navigate their defensive situations in the months ahead.

For now, two Premier League captains — Marc Guehi and Nathan Collins — stand at the centre of one of the season’s most intriguing transfer narratives.

Liverpool and Chelsea monitoring Spurs defender Micky van de Ven

Liverpool and Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Tottenham centre back Micky van de Ven, with the Dutch international attracting mounting interest across Europe. According to a recent report highlighted by Caught Offside, the 24 year old is beginning to draw admiring glances from some of the continent’s biggest clubs.

Rising reputation of Van de Ven

Having joined Spurs from Wolfsburg, Van de Ven has made an immediate impact in the Premier League. His pace, anticipation and ball carrying ability have established him as a core figure in Thomas Frank’s side. As the original article notes, “the 24-year-old has proven a superb signing for Spurs after previously catching the eye during a spell in the Bundesliga with Wolfsburg.”

Despite this progress, questions remain about Tottenham’s capacity to keep hold of such an asset. The same report observed that “Van de Ven will be on quite a low salary at Spurs, and one imagines that could harm their chances of keeping him.” For an ambitious player approaching the peak of his career, the lure of higher wages and Champions League security may become decisive.

Liverpool’s defensive succession planning

Liverpool are known to be exploring options for the long term replacement of Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch captain remains influential but at 34, succession planning is essential. Van de Ven’s profile is seen as near perfect. His recovery speed mirrors Van Dijk’s earlier years and his aerial dominance makes him a natural fit at Anfield. The report suggested “the Netherlands international looks like an ideal long-term replacement for the ageing Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.”

European giants lurking

It is not only English sides circling. The Boy Hotspur outlet, via Caught Offside, mentioned interest from Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Both clubs have a history of recruiting young defenders at the right stage of their career and could provide competition that Tottenham are unlikely to match financially.

Spurs fans will remember previous departures of leading figures. As the report reminded, “Tottenham have often had to sell some of their star names down the years, such as Harry Kane, Gareth Bale and Luka Modric.” This reality is difficult to ignore when assessing Van de Ven’s future.

Spurs’ challenge to retain talent

Tottenham are back in the Champions League this season but there are no guarantees that qualification will be consistent. If Van de Ven believes he has outgrown the project, Spurs face the familiar challenge of either offering a lucrative new deal or preparing for a sale. His case is emblematic of the club’s wider balancing act between ambition and financial pragmatism.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, Van de Ven feels like a natural target. He is Dutch, athletic, technically gifted and has already adapted to Premier League football. For Arne Slot, who has already delivered a league title in his debut season, ensuring defensive solidity is key to sustaining success. Slot has managed to rejuvenate Liverpool’s style without compromising on intensity and adding a player like Van de Ven could extend that evolution.

The discussion around Van Dijk’s successor has been ongoing for years but realistic candidates are limited. Giovanni Leoni shows promise, yet Liverpool still require another elite level defender who can operate at the highest level for the next decade. Van de Ven ticks that box.

It should also be acknowledged that Liverpool’s recruitment team, now operating under Richard Hughes, have been deliberate about identifying players entering their prime. At 24, Van de Ven fits that model perfectly. The financial element cannot be overlooked, however, as Tottenham are under no pressure to sell and competition from Madrid and Bayern could inflate the price.

Manchester United, Liverpool and Rivals Tracking Ajax Prodigy Jorthy Mokio

Premier League Giants Compete for Mokio

Manchester World have reported that Manchester United are set to battle for Ajax’s highly-rated teenager Jorthy Mokio as part of their long-term squad rebuild. The 17-year-old is attracting interest across Europe, with the report noting: “Competition is fierce though with Barcelona and Real Madrid joining the likes of Man City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur in keeping tabs on the 17-year old.”

United’s manager Ruben Amorim is said to be seeking players who can grow with his team and fit into his 3-4-3 system, and Mokio appears to be a strong candidate. According to TEAMtalk, Mokio “is the perfect combination of Declan Rice and N’Golo Kante” while also being able to play as a centre-back or left-back. That level of versatility could make him invaluable for a club looking to restructure its squad.

Ajax Star’s Development Path

Mokio turned down offers from Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024, preferring Ajax’s reputation for developing young players. This decision showed a mature approach to his career, prioritising playing time over a lucrative move to a European powerhouse. That same mindset could appeal to Amorim, who is likely to offer minutes in a young and evolving United side.

Manchester World also highlighted that with some of United’s most expensive players departing, the dressing room environment is now “more harmonious” and focused on pulling in the same direction. A player like Mokio could thrive in that setting.

Balancing Youth and Experience

The debate over integrating youth players has been a long-standing one at Old Trafford. BBC Sport pundit Fara Williams reflected on the dilemma last season: “I am of the mindset that I also would have protected them myself as a coach. It is all well and good giving these players their debuts when you think they are ready and have got players around them to support them, when things are positive and you can integrate them into the team – that is always easier.”

United now appear to have reached a point where younger players can be introduced into a more settled squad, giving talents like Mokio a better chance of success.

European Competition for Signature

Liverpool’s interest adds another layer of intrigue, as Arne Slot continues to look for players who can enhance Liverpool’s depth and sustain their challenge for silverware. If Mokio’s price rises, it could trigger a bidding war between England’s top clubs and La Liga giants.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool supporters will view this story with keen interest. Jorthy Mokio represents exactly the type of signing that has underpinned the club’s success in recent years: young, versatile, technically adept and hungry to develop. Arne Slot has already shown that he is willing to trust younger players, and a talent like Mokio could eventually provide cover in multiple positions – a valuable asset in a squad competing across four competitions.

The competition is fierce, and Liverpool will need to act decisively if they want to secure his signature. Manchester United’s current rebuild under Amorim could be attractive to Mokio, but Liverpool can offer Champions League football and a proven environment for nurturing young stars.

Fans will see Mokio as part of the next generation of players who could keep Liverpool challenging at the top. While this is unlikely to be a cheap deal, the potential long-term value makes it an exciting possibility. The hope will be that Edwards and Richard Hughes are already positioning Liverpool at the front of the queue.

Liverpool Eye Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke as Defensive Options Narrow

Depth concerns in Liverpool defence

Liverpool’s summer transfer window was notable for its attacking recruits, but questions remain at the back. Jeremie Frimpong, Giovanni Leoni and Milos Kerkez have been added, yet central defence looks short of long-term security. Virgil van Dijk is approaching the latter stages of his career, while Ibrahima Konaté has entered the final year of his contract. That combination leaves the Premier League champions assessing potential replacements.

Jan Paul van Hecke under consideration

Brighton & Hove Albion’s Jan Paul van Hecke has emerged as a credible option. Sources indicate the Dutchman is admired at Anfield, though Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi remains the primary target. Should Guehi prove difficult to acquire, Van Hecke is seen as an alternative solution.

Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring the 25-year-old, who Brighton are valuing at around £44 million. Spurs have sufficient depth in Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin and Luka Vuskovic, but Van Hecke’s profile is keeping him on their radar.

Brighton’s track record of major sales

Brighton have built a reputation for maximising value in the transfer market. Moisés Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and Marc Cucurella are among those to have departed for significant sums. Van Hecke could be the next to generate major income, with his contract set to enter its final year in the summer of 2026.

The Dutch defender has been consistent in the Premier League, praised for his positional awareness, composure in duels and dominance in the air. He also contributes in possession, with a strong passing range that allows Brighton to build effectively from deep.

Liverpool’s defensive succession planning

For Liverpool, Van Hecke’s attributes would make him a logical candidate to follow Van Dijk. He has already featured alongside the Liverpool captain in the Netherlands squad and could offer continuity in style and presence. With Konaté attracting interest from Real Madrid, the need for reinforcements could become pressing as early as next summer.

While Guehi is Liverpool’s preferred choice, negotiations with Crystal Palace are unlikely to be straightforward. Brighton’s stance on Van Hecke may prove equally firm, but the potential of acquiring a defender entering his prime, with Premier League experience, is one that aligns with Liverpool’s recruitment strategy.

Gibbs-White U-turn leaves Tottenham searching for answers

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of midfield reinforcement has taken a sharp turn after the long-running Morgan Gibbs-White saga ended in disappointment, with the player unexpectedly opting to extend his stay at Nottingham Forest. Spurs, now forced to recalibrate their transfer strategy, have turned their attention towards Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott as a potential solution.

Tottenham had prioritised the acquisition of Gibbs-White throughout the summer window. At 25, the Nottingham Forest midfielder was seen as an ideal candidate to fill a creative void and contribute immediately. However, after weeks of negotiations and quiet optimism in North London, Forest confirmed the player’s new deal — a development that blindsided those within Spurs’ recruitment setup.

While the decision to remain at the City Ground is believed to have been driven by Gibbs-White’s affinity for the project under Nuno Espírito Santo, the timing has left Tottenham in a precarious position. With the new Premier League season fast approaching, fans are rightly questioning the club’s direction, especially with just one major signing — Mohammed Kudus — secured to date.

Harvey Elliott emerges as a possible midfield target

Sources suggest Spurs are actively considering other creative midfielders, and Harvey Elliott has emerged as one name on their shortlist. The 21-year-old, a key figure in England’s victorious U21 European Championship squad, could be allowed to leave Liverpool this summer in pursuit of regular football.

Despite showing promise in pre-season under new manager Arne Slot, Elliott’s campaign was hindered by a fractured foot, limiting him to just 371 Premier League minutes last term. Over the two seasons prior, he featured in 29 league starts, becoming a trusted option under Jürgen Klopp during crunch moments.

The midfielder’s technical skill and positional versatility make him an intriguing candidate. Operating primarily from the right of a midfield three or as a playmaker behind the forwards, Elliott is known for his incisive passing and ability to unlock defences. At youth level and in brief senior flashes, he’s demonstrated maturity and tactical intelligence well beyond his years.

Spurs fans remain divided on Elliott links

However, any prospective move for Elliott would not come without scrutiny. The player has history with the Tottenham fanbase stemming from an incident in 2019, when he was handed a two-week suspension for mocking Harry Kane in a social media video. While Elliott issued an apology at the time, some within the Spurs community have not forgotten.

For many, the issue is less about off-field incidents and more about on-field productivity. With limited minutes last season and questions over whether he can command a regular Premier League role, doubts remain about whether Elliott represents the level of investment required for a club with Champions League aspirations.

Tottenham’s window hangs in the balance

As the Gibbs-White deal fades into the distance, Tottenham’s ability to regroup and strengthen effectively will define their start to the campaign. The need for midfield invention is obvious, and while Elliott brings potential, he also represents a gamble.

The club is expected to continue exploring alternatives as the window edges towards its conclusion. Whether Elliott becomes the chosen option will depend on multiple factors — not least Liverpool’s valuation and the appetite within Spurs to move quickly.

Tottenham Hotspur Eye Surprise Move for Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa

Caught Offside have revealed that Tottenham Hotspur are seriously considering a surprise swoop for Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa, in a move that could shake up both clubs’ summer transfer plans.

With Liverpool having just sealed the Premier League title under new boss Arne Slot, attention has already turned to shaping next season’s squad. While additions are expected, the club’s focus will be on maintaining a lean squad similar in size to this season’s title-winning group.

Chiesa’s Struggles at Anfield

Chiesa arrived at Liverpool from Juventus last summer with high expectations but has found opportunities hard to come by. Injuries and intense competition have limited the 27-year-old to just five Premier League appearances in his debut season.

Reports suggest that Liverpool are now open to selling Chiesa, but only on a permanent basis. His lack of impact and high wages mean that a move could be mutually beneficial, particularly with Arne Slot reportedly looking to streamline his squad.

“According to reports, Liverpool are willing to part ways with the 27-year-old, but only on a permanent basis.”

With several Italian clubs expressing interest, Tottenham’s emergence as a contender adds a new dynamic to the situation.

Tottenham’s Transfer Strategy

Caught Offside reports that Tottenham are seriously weighing up a move for Chiesa, citing links through Fabio Paratici, who is set to resume a formal role at Spurs.

“Tottenham have also entered the race and could emerge as serious contenders,” the report stated.

Paratici’s longstanding relationship with Chiesa and his agent, Fali Ramadani, could give Spurs a critical edge in negotiations. While Chiesa’s reported salary might prove a stumbling block for Serie A sides like AC Milan and Napoli, Tottenham are thought to be better positioned financially.

“The main stumbling block for a potential return to Italy is Chiesa’s salary,” Caught Offside revealed. “Napoli… are even less likely to match his current salary, which is considered excessive by their financial standards.”

Liverpool’s Transfer Philosophy Under Slot

Arne Slot appears to be carrying forward Liverpool’s recent emphasis on squad balance rather than bloated numbers. The aim is clear: quality over quantity.

“Arne Slot and his Liverpool coaches do not want to sign just for the sake of it; they want the same squad size as this season,” according to Sports Mail, as referenced by Caught Offside.

With Giorgi Mamardashvili already lined up as Caoimhin Kelleher’s replacement, Liverpool are expected to pursue a one-in, one-out strategy this summer. Along with Chiesa, players like Darwin Nunez, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah could also be moved on if appropriate offers come in.

Valuation Makes Chiesa a Tempting Prospect

Liverpool’s valuation of Chiesa is reportedly in the range of €15–20 million, a figure that many top clubs across Europe could realistically afford, particularly given his pedigree and versatility.

Caught Offside notes: “Liverpool has set a valuation of €15–20 million, an affordable price tag for many top European clubs given Chiesa’s experience and versatility.”

Given that price, Spurs may see Chiesa as a low-risk, high-reward acquisition who could thrive in Ange Postecoglou’s attack-minded system if he can regain form and fitness.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the notion of Chiesa leaving just one year after joining may seem disappointing on the surface. Brought in with high hopes, his limited appearances suggest he never fully integrated into the system—whether due to fitness, form, or the intense competition for attacking places.

Arne Slot’s pragmatic approach has served Liverpool well this season, culminating in a Premier League title in his very first campaign. In that context, letting go of underused assets like Chiesa makes practical sense. Still, supporters will understandably question why such a talented winger, previously admired across Europe, was unable to make his mark at Anfield.

From a fan perspective, the biggest concern may be what this move says about Liverpool’s transfer strategy. Was Chiesa simply a misfit in terms of style? Or did internal dynamics and tactical choices limit his chances? Either way, the relatively low reported fee of €15–20 million feels like a significant depreciation in value for a player of his international pedigree.

If Tottenham do land him and he rediscovers form, it could be a deal we come to regret. But with the current setup working so seamlessly under Slot, few fans will argue against decisions that continue the momentum of a trophy-laden new era.

Liverpool on Brink of Glory as Gary Neville Predicts ‘Barbaric’ Spurs Beating

It’s not just a title on the line for Liverpool this weekend — it’s the chance to crown a season of remarkable transformation with a statement of dominance. And if Gary Neville’s blunt forecast is to be believed, Tottenham Hotspur could be the unfortunate supporting act in a moment of Anfield euphoria.

Neville, never one to pull punches, painted a grim picture for Spurs ahead of their trip to Liverpool. “A procession. It will be barbaric,” he warned. “I think it will be 4-1. Liverpool will score four. It will be one of those celebratory [afternoons].”

Tottenham’s recent Premier League form — five losses in seven — only fuels such expectations. As Arsenal’s midweek slip against Crystal Palace fades from memory, Liverpool know a win on Sunday edges them even closer to a second Premier League crown and a first under Arne Slot.

Slot’s Quiet Revolution Turns Doubters into Believers

Replacing Jürgen Klopp was never going to be straightforward. But Arne Slot, with calm clarity and an emphasis on continuity, has managed to sidestep the chaos that often follows a managerial icon’s departure.

Even Neville concedes he underestimated the Dutchman: “None of us can rewrite history,” he said on The Gary Neville Podcast. “I don’t think there were many Liverpool fans who thought they could win the league, let alone anybody else.

“I don’t remember any pundit, analyst, journalist or fan saying that Liverpool will win the league. It was Man City or Arsenal. To do what they have done is very special and there’s nothing like being at Anfield, next Sunday, knowing you’ve got a game for the title with ones to spare.”

Slot hasn’t reinvented the wheel — but he’s polished the rims. Under his guidance, Liverpool have rediscovered fluency, cutting edge, and a defensive solidity that had faded in the final Klopp months.

Tottenham’s Dilemma: Damage Limitation or Defiant Upset?

While some may dream of a dramatic upset handing Arsenal a lifeline, Tottenham fans will be more concerned about avoiding humiliation. The North Londoners, battered by inconsistency, could do with resolve more than romance.

And yet, there’s a sting of narrative irony. Ange Postecoglou, a boyhood Liverpool fan, might witness his boyhood club clinch the title at his team’s expense — a poetic twist or a painful dagger, depending on your lens.

Spurs won’t have to offer a guard of honour just yet, but they might be forced into a long, sobering walk back down the tunnel as Anfield roars with anticipation of glory.

Looking Ahead to Stamford Bridge Showdown

Should Liverpool seal the title this weekend, Chelsea may face the ignominy of clapping them onto the pitch at Stamford Bridge. That would complete a symbolic loop — one London club humbled, another compelled to acknowledge a new champion.

For Liverpool, all eyes are on the job at hand. For Tottenham, it’s a case of survival — not in the table, but in the headlines.

Liverpool vs Tottenham: Title Within Reach but Spurs Stand in the Way

Liverpool’s next Premier League fixture brings with it more than just three points — it brings the chance to clinch the title at Anfield. On the latest Molby On The Spot podcast, Jan Molby sat down with Trev Downey to preview what could be a season-defining clash with Tottenham Hotspur, and the legendary Dane didn’t hold back in assessing the challenge Ange Postecoglou’s side could pose.

Tactical Caution Despite Spurs’ Inconsistencies

While Spurs have had an up-and-down season, Molby was quick to warn against any complacency. “They’ve got plenty of players who can hurt you,” he said, namechecking Brennan Johnson, James Maddison, and Son Heung-min. “If you’re at it from the first minute, you win four or five. But if you offer a little bit, allow them to play at their tempo, it’s going to be tricky.”

He pointed out that although Tottenham have struggled with form, the talent in their squad still demands respect — especially in high-stakes games like this. “We’ve seen the spotty, cocky football they can play. It’s been a long time, but I think he [Postecoglou] believes it’s in there somewhere.”

Postecoglou’s Selection Dilemma

Spurs’ congested fixture list adds another layer of unpredictability. With a Europa League semi-final against Bodø/Glimt looming, Molby believes the Australian manager is likely to rotate. “He made five changes from the last Europa League game for Forest. I think he’ll make changes again on Sunday.”

However, Molby emphasised that returning players still need to find form: “It’s all very good having them back, but they need to play. So I can actually see him going strong for an hour.”

What makes this Spurs side dangerous isn’t just individual quality, but a point to prove. “Even if they win the Europa League, I can’t see how he survives at Spurs. But going to Anfield is still something unique. He’ll want to go there and give it a real go.”

Reds Must Be Ruthless Early

Molby returned to a message ingrained in Liverpool’s identity during his playing days. “Start quick and you can always go quicker. Start slow and you’re in trouble,” he said, echoing Ronnie Moran’s famous words.

He painted a scenario all too familiar this season — Liverpool dominating a match in patches but failing to kill it early. “We have moments because we’re better than most teams. But we don’t get there in terms of a full 90-minute performance. Mainly because we don’t have to.”

That approach won’t suffice on Sunday. With the title in sight, the atmosphere inside Anfield will be expectant. “The fans are desperate to win it at home. Nobody wants to take 3,000 to Stamford Bridge and win it there.”

Prediction: Expect Goals, Expect Drama

When asked for a final prediction, Molby didn’t hesitate. “I think we’re going to win. I actually think it could be quite a bit of a game — I’m going Liverpool three, Spurs two.”

It’s a fitting scoreline for what could be a defining day in Liverpool’s season. But as Molby noted, nothing will come easy against a Spurs side that, even in their current form, carries enough threat to spoil the party — if Liverpool let them.

Liverpool Title Charge Meets Spurs Caution Over Key Injuries

Liverpool’s march toward Premier League history takes centre stage at Anfield this weekend as they welcome Tottenham Hotspur. With Arne Slot’s side on the verge of a record-equalling 20th league crown, Sunday’s fixture could mark a defining chapter in the club’s illustrious story.

Only Arsenal’s midweek clash with Crystal Palace holds the power to delay Liverpool’s potential title celebration. But regardless of results elsewhere, there’s a sense that the Kop is ready to erupt. Anfield, ever imposing and unrelenting, has not witnessed a league defeat to Spurs in 14 meetings. History and form both lean red.

For Tottenham, it’s a different narrative. Languishing in 16th place and having lost more than half of their league games, the season has unravelled. Their defensive record reads like a warning light—51 goals conceded, numerous points squandered, and faith in a top-half finish dwindling.

Postecoglou Carefully Managing Injured Stars

Ange Postecoglou arrives at Anfield hoping to avoid another heavy blow, but his hands may be tied. After the 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest, the Australian offered insight into the state of his squad—particularly defensive lynchpins Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, both of whom have struggled with hamstring injuries throughout the campaign.

“I thought they needed to play some minutes tonight because it becomes 10 days leading into Liverpool. With both of them we’ve got them in a really good place physically now and I just want to keep them ticking over,” Postecoglou told Football London.

“I felt that there was no need to play more than 45 minutes today and we needed to get a couple of others game time.”

In what seems a pragmatic yet cautious approach, the Spurs boss added: “I just felt that if it was Sunday we probably wouldn’t have played them, but on a Monday, especially for Micky because he’s been playing just one game a week, we need to build him up because he’s in a really good place at the moment so I thought 45 minutes for both of them would be beneficial.”

Udogie and Maddison Also Eased Back

It wasn’t just the centre-backs being managed. Destiny Udogie and James Maddison, two of Spurs’ more influential performers, were also kept out of the Forest defeat as Postecoglou prioritised freshness ahead of the Liverpool clash.

“Destiny was fine. We just left him out of the squad tonight. He put in a big physical shift on Thursday and the idea was always to rest him,” he explained.

“I wasn’t going to put him on so there was no point in putting him on the bench. Madders was pretty sore yesterday but in the last 24 hours, he recovered and was keen to be on the bench. They’re both fine.”

Anfield Awaits with Expectations and Tension

The significance of this fixture cannot be overstated. For Liverpool, it’s an opportunity to place their name in the history books under new leadership. Slot’s arrival marked a fresh beginning—and now, with the title in reach, his work may be rewarded with silverware and a symbolic handover from the Klopp era.

For Spurs, Sunday offers a rare chance to salvage pride and play spoiler. But the odds—form, fitness, and psychological weight—are stacked heavily against them.

Liverpool are not just fighting for three points—they’re chasing immortality. Postecoglou, meanwhile, must hope that a patched-up defence and a spark of belief can delay the coronation.