Let’s take a look at the five things we learned from the 3-3 result:

(Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images)

Stopping the Slide –

The biggest takeaway for me is the fact that Tottenham prevented a fourth successive Premier League defeat. Not because it would have made any difference to the long-term project, but because it completely changes the headlines for Spurs this week. They have gone from serial losers and ‘is Postecoglou getting found out?’ to brave Tottenham who played City at their own game and got a point. That is huge for morale.

That Kulusevski Magic –

Three games at the Etihad and three goals for Dejan Kulusevski! It’s fast becoming his favourite away ground in the Premier League, and that is saying something. I was really impressed by his tenacious work in the pockets in the first half as he started in that number ten role again – up against Rodri no less. On the right in the second 45, he had acres to run into. At times, I want to see that Dejan of a year ago when he would take players out wide with his right foot just as often as cutting in. But there is no arguing with his work rate or his ability to put the ball into Man City’s net!

Ange Ball Strikes Again –

All the build-up to the game was about how Postecoglou simply could not play his style of football away to Man City with so many absent players and come out with anything but a hiding. Once again, Postecoglou showed that you don’t have to bow to the big sides. Even if Spurs had lost this evening, I still think people are missing the point. It is not about the short-term with Ange. Win, lose or draw, it’s about creating a new culture and a new way of playing at the club. You don’t change everything just because someone is injured, you simply teach every member of your squad to play the same way and improve together. It’s all a process and the signs are very positive for the long term.

Champions League Places –

Thanks to that point, Tottenham remain in what could be the Champions League places come the end of the season (if England are handed a fifth slot). They remain one point ahead of Newcastle and are just two behind Aston Villa in fourth. But perhaps more importantly, they once again showed they can mix it with the big boys.

Returning Players –

In theory, Tottenham’s woes should get ever so slightly lighter by the next game. Cristian Romero’s ban is now over and Richarlison made an appearance off the bench for Spurs. It’s not much compared to the long list of absentees, but it at least relieves some stress on the starting XI. And I would imagine Romero and Davies will now become the regular back two for the foreseeable future.

The post Opinion: Five things we learned from Tottenham’s 3-3 draw with Man City appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

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

Tottenham Hotspur’s Swedish midfielder #21 Dejan Kulusevski (C) vies with Manchester City’s Portuguese midfielder #20 Bernardo Silva (L) and Manchester City’s Argentinian striker #19 Julian Alvarez (R) during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, northwest England, on December 3, 2023. (Photo by Darren Staples / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images)

Tottenham Player Ratings vs Man City

Guglielmo Vicario – 7.5 – Made some decent stops throughout, the highlight being that diving tip around the corner at the start of the second 45. Also had to do a lot of work with his feet today. Absolutely nothing to complain about. Steady pair of hands, steady pair of feet.

Pedro Porro – 5.5 – It felt like Porro was a little afraid of Doku today, and that is understandable. The right-back opted to step off and off and off rather than meeting Doku head-on. As a result, the Man City winger was able to push his way into the box over and over again, causing a lot of trouble. When the game opened up, Porro was much better in the pockets in an attacking sense.

Emerson Royal – 4 – While it feels harsh to slam Emerson for defensive mistakes while playing out of position, I was disappointed with him on the ball today. He looked nervous with every touch under pressure and gave the ball away in some shocking areas.

Ben Davies – 6 – Once again, you have to remember he is a left-back playing in a back two. I thought Davies did some good work today, but also struggled to deal with the Man City runners. For every solid piece of defending, there was one instance where he looked a little lost.

Destiny Udogie – 6.5 – Not his usual self on the ball in the first half and was nowhere near as much of a threat going forward. Picked up a silly first-half yellow that puts him one away from a suspension and left him walking a tightrope. Much better in the second 45 when he started to contribute going forward.

Yves Bissouma – 5 – It just felt like Bissouma wasn’t switched on today. He has been in and out of the team for the past month, but there were a few times he seemed to lack concentration off the ball. You can’t turn your back on this Man City side for a second. Then, at the most vital of moments, he lost concentration on the ball too. It was a shame because he looked class in the second half.

Giovani Lo Celso – 8 – He at least added the odd positive pass in that midfield, which was really needed at times. Spurs lost some of that solidity that perhaps you need at times under siege. He then stepped up at the perfect moment to bring Spurs level. Looked really dangerous when the game opened up.

Dejan Kulusevski – 8 – Impressed in some really tight situations. Up against the best defensive midfielder in the world, he wriggled free into some great areas. Did well to set up Son’s goal with the ball over the top. Had so much space in the second 45, I just wanted to see him use his right foot and go down the line a bit more. But what a leap in the dying moments to earn Spurs a point!

Brennan Johnson – 7 – Drifted in and out of the game. Showed blistering pace to beat Gvardiol down the right and almost set up Son. Was a little selfish with some shots around the edge of the box when they were good passes on at times. Then, just when Spurs needed a moment, he delivered a pin-point cross for the winner!

Heung-min Son – 8 – Considering he fed off scraps for large parts of the game, I thought Son’s hold-up play was a lot better today. Opened the scoring and assisted Lo Celso’s too, popping up in two key moments when Tottenham needed him most. Could have had a couple more had Gil and Kulusevski played in some earlier crosses.

Bryan Gil – 7 – Unfortunate to go off at half-time but Spurs perhaps needed to change something as they were far too open. Gil is a chaotic little player and will run for you all day long. He had some lovely moments on the ball and set up the Spurs opener with a brave pass in his own box. He just needs more consistency with that final pass.

Substitutes: 

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg – 7 – Hojbjerg was actually really steady after coming on at half-time. It was the right call by Postecoglou. Defended his own box well but used the ball nicely too.

Oliver Skipp – 5 – Only came on for 15 minutes but threw himself about to earn that point.

Richarlison – N/A – Lovely to see him back.

Jamie Donley – N/A – What a great experience for the young lad!

The post Opinion: Tottenham player ratings from the crazy 3-3 draw with Man City appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Let’s take a look at five things we learned from the match:

(Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)

Sometimes you just need luck –

In the midst of an injury and suspension crisis, Ange Postecoglou named somewhat of a strange Tottenham line-up today with no central defenders and no defensive midfielders. But it worked! For the first 30 minutes, Spurs were all over Aston Villa and arguably should have been a couple of goals to the good.

The midfield trio of Bentancur, Lo Celso and Kulusevski was creating all kinds of problems in attack, until the former was sliced down by Matty Cash. Postecoglou came up with a game plan that worked, but all that momentum seemed to vanish when Hojbjerg came on, who has a very different skill set. When it rains, it often pours on the injury front.

One in, one out for Man City?

Talking of Rodrigo Bentancur, if the Uruguayan is out for the Man City clash with yet another injury, it could be a case of a midfield revolving door for Spurs. Yves Bissouma will be back from suspension and could take Bentancur’s place in the pivot role, lining up alongside Lo Celso and Kulusevski (unless Pape Matar Sarr makes a quick recovery). How will that attacking midfield cope with Pep Guardiola’s side though?

Man of the Match

For me, Giovani Lo Celso was Man of the Match, and I would be saying the same even if he hadn’t scored the opener. The Argentine came in for some of his first football of the season and absolutely ran the show for much of the game. Almost every Spurs attack that unlocked a stubborn Aston Villa defence involved a nice pass or fancy piece of footwork from the Argentine. I hope he gets the credit he deserves for that all-round performance, despite the defeat. Must start next weekend.

The centre-back problem

Postecoglou has tried Eric Dier and Ben Davies. He has tried Ben Davies and Emerson Royal. He only really has Alfie Dorrington to choose from beyond those three and I doubt he will choose Man City away to throw the youngster in. Against the pace and physicality of Erling Haaland, the sad thing is that there just isn’t a correct answer. I suspect he will stick with Emerson and Davies and just hope to beat Man City at their own game at the other end of the pitch.

Positives to take

Yes, it is another defeat. Yes, that is three losses in a row. Yes, Man City away is next. But I think it would be a mistake to look at any single part of Tottenham’s season this year in isolation and without context. Spurs were missing six players who started in their last win, but still created an abundance of chances against a fellow top-five team.

There are no excuses for losing or for not putting those chances away, but if this is the kind of football Postecoglou can get from a depleted squad of players who don’t all necessarily fit his system, then it is another positive step in the right direction. There are better days and better results ahead.

The post Opinion: Five things we learned from Tottenham’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

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

(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Tottenham Player Ratings vs Aston Villa

Guglielmo Vicario – 8 – Had one nervy moment when he let Bailey’s shot slip underneath his fingers, but the post saved his blushes. Apart from that, Vicario came up with a number of really smart stops and was quick off his line to sniff out trouble a few times. Top goalkeeper.

Pedro Porro – 7 – A mixed game for Pedro. He was different class in the first 30 minutes, including a lovely ball over the top and some dangerous play in and around the box. Almost scored late on in the game too. But he did give the ball away in some extremely dangerous positions and his set-piece delivery was average at best today.

Emerson Royal – 6.5 – Difficult to mark him today. Overall, I thought he did very well. Tottenham’s second-choice right-back filling in at centre-back, 90 per cent of his work was spot on. Comfortable in possession, carried the ball well, but eventually went to sleep a little to let Ollie Watkins in.

Ben Davies – 6 – The bar is a little higher for Davies seeing as he had a bit of experience in the centre of defence. Again, I don’t think he was awful, but he just doesn’t have the traits needed to play there every week. Lost Torres at the corner in what was a mismatch at the best of times.

Destiny Udogie – 7 – At times in the first half he was playing almost like a second striker. Should have put Tottenham ahead in the first few minutes but blazed over. A constant threat down the left but seemed to run out of steam in the final 20 minutes.

Rodrigo Bentancur – 7 – I can’t give him more than a 7 because he wasn’t on the pitch for that long, but Bentancur looked different class in his cameo. Just keeps Spurs ticking over and looks after the ball so well in those tight pockets. Tottenham went down a gear when he was forced off.

Giovani Lo Celso – 8.5 – Couldn’t ask much more from Lo Celso today. He was both a creative spark in the final third and a fantastic carrier of the ball in the centre of the pitch. I do think his best position is deeper rather than in attack. Took his goal well, albeit with a deflection. Tired towards the end.

Dejan Kulusevski – 8 – Playing a new role today in midfield, Kulusevski was allowed to roam free in the first half before settling in a position on the right of a three in the second. He carried the ball better than anyone and committed defenders every single time he had the ball. Very unlucky not to score in the first ten minutes, but probably his best performance in a long time.

Bryan Gil – 6.5 – Full of energy down the left and you cannot fault his commitment. He ran his socks off and he really hasn’t played much football this year. Ultimately lacked the final pass or shot and ran out of steam in the end, but he has done his reputation no harm with that performance.

Heung-min Son – 6 – Barely in the game today beyond sticking the ball in the back of the net three times for offside goals. Aston Villa defended the centre of their box very well and Son was engulfed in that number nine position. Might have been better to let him drift wide a bit more.

Brennan Johnson – 6 – Had a lot of space to operate in down the right and also had a lot of joy in the first 30 minutes, but his end product wasn’t up to scratch today. Too many overhit crosses and wasted one good chance through on goal.

Substitutes: 

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg – 5 – Never quite got up to the pace of the game and gave the ball away far too much. The drop-off from Bentancur to Hojbjerg was very noticeable.

Oliver Skipp – 5 – Came on to add some fresh legs but did little more than that.

Alejo Veliz – N/A

The post Opinion: Tottenham player ratings from the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

A win for Spurs could see them make ground on the likes of Man City, Liverpool and Arsenal, while a victory for Unai Emery would see Aston Villa leapfrog Tottenham into fourth.

The Lilywhites come into the fixture with a long list of absentees, including the suspensions for Yves Bissouma and Cristian Romero to go with the injuries to James Maddison and Micky van de Ven.

(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

We caught up with Tottenham legend and friend of The Spurs Web, Pascal Chimbonda once more to get his best score prediction for the Premier League match.

The Tottenham Predictions

Pascal – 2-2 Draw

Spurs Web – 2-1 Tottenham win

The Rules

The rules are simple – We will be predicting Tottenham scores against Pascal for the entire 2023/24 season. Three points will be awarded for a perfect prediction, while a correct score will get one point.

The Table

Spurs Web – 15 points after 13 games (6 correct results, 3 correct scores)

Pascal – 9 points after 13 games (6 correct results, 1 correct score)

The post Opinion: Pascal Chimbonda vs Spurs Web score prediction – Aston Villa appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

We believe that Guglielmo Vicario will return from illness to take his place between the sticks, while Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie will line up in the inverted full-back roles for Spurs.

The back two will remain the same as last week, with Eric Dier and Ben Davies having to hold a high line against the pace of Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby.

In midfield, Pape Matar Sarr may not be risked after the knock he picked up on Senegal duty and Yves Bissouma is suspended, so we could see a three of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Oliver Skipp, and Rodrigo Bentancur.

Up front, Postecoglou will stick with the trio of Heung-min Son, Brennan Johnson, and Dejan Kulusevski as his one settled area of the pitch. Most other attacking options are currently out injured.

Predicted Tottenham XI vs Aston Villa

The post Predicted Tottenham XI to take on Aston Villa – Postecoglou forced into more changes appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Aston Villa visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend in what could become the battle for a top-four spot in the Premier League.

While Spurs are just two points off the summit of the Premier League table despite back-to-back defeats against Chelsea and Wolves, they are also only one point ahead of Villa in fifth.

A win for Tottenham would give them some breathing room in the battle for the top-four finish, while a win for Unai Emery’s Aston Villa would see them leapfrog Spurs into the Champions League places.

Unfortunately for Ange Postecoglou, he comes into the match with a severely depleted Tottenham team, with Cristian Romero, Yves Bissouma, James Maddison and Micky Van de Ven all among the absentees.

(Photo by Aston Villa/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)

Tottenham are planning for January transfers

As such, it seems the Lilywhites are already planning for winter reinforcements. When asked about January transfers, Ange Postecoglou said (Football London): “I guess the challenge for us was they all came at once as it hasn’t been staggered.

“In terms of January, the planning is well away with that. Johan has come in and he’s leading that in terms of all the background work.

“My involvement and my own sort of ramp up to it as we get closer to January and understanding exactly what our requirements are at the moment, although work has been done in the background with Johan leading it and he’s brought in some people to help him in that area. We’ll work with him when the time is right.”

Spurs Web Opinion: 

Ange Postecoglou needs to build the Tottenham squad in his image. The starting XI is looking good, but a few depth signings for January could be very valuable for the Lilywhites. The project is going to take time, but you have to keep things moving.

The post Postecoglou says Tottenham January transfer planning is well underway appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham welcome Aston Villa to North London on Sunday as they look to bounce back from two straight defeats at the hands of Chelsea and Wolves.

Playing the majority of the match against nine men in the London derby and conceding two injury-time goals at Molineux has somewhat burst the balloon in N17.

Spurs had won eight and drawn two from their first ten matches of the season, but with Villa and Man City coming up, the Lilywhites will have to fight tooth and nail to avoid four defeats in a row.

With James Maddison, Yves Bissouma, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and more unavailable for the game at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend, Postecoglou will need to work his magic.

Ange Postecoglou, head coach of Tottenham Hotspur during the pre-match press conference between Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City, pre-season friendly football match at Rajamangala Stadium on July 23, 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Photo by Vachira Vachira/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

With so many midfielders out, and Pape Matar Sarr picking up a knock on international duty, Postecoglou was asked about Skipp in his press conference.

He said (Football London): “Skippy has been working hard at training. He stayed back with us and did a lot of good work last couple of weeks. He’s working hard and waiting for the opportunity.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

This feels like a bit of a must-win for Tottenham, with Man City coming up next. I just don’t see anything but a Spurs defeat in that game, so a win against Villa would at least prevent the headlines of four defeats in a row for the Lilywhites.

The post Postecoglou says 23-year-old is waiting for his opportunity amid Spurs injury crisis appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham head into the weekend just two points off the top of the Premier League table. Things are extremely tight between Man City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs in the top four, as well as Aston Villa waiting to pounce down in fifth.

In fact, if Unai Emery can mastermind an away win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, the Lilywhites will drop down into fifth and Villa will take their place in the top four.

Spurs will likely have to field a back two of Eric Dier and Ben Davies, with Cristian Romero still banned and Micky Van de Ven out injured until the new year. The creativity of James Maddison will also be missed in the Lilywhite midfield.

Ange Postecoglou, head coach of Tottenham Hotspur during the pre-match press conference between Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City, pre-season friendly football match at Rajamangala Stadium on July 23, 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Photo by Vachira Vachira/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Could Rodrigo Bentancur replace Maddison for now?

However, Postecoglou has revealed that he thinks Rodrigo Bentancur can play further forward in a number 8 position, as well as playing as a number 6.

He said (Football London): “I think he can play a couple of different areas. He can play as a No.6 or further forward as a No.8.”

On whether Bentancur playing as a 6 is better while he works his way back to fitness, Postecoglou added: “Yeah, potentially. It’s probably why Marcelo [Bielsa] probably used him like that for Uruguay. He did it really well and he can play there.”

On Bentancur’s fitness, Ange said: “He’s fine. He trained this morning so it was good for Roddy to play. He was really keen to get back into the international team setup, and obviously keen to get back with us as well.

“But he missed a lot with the national team and he feels, like most players, really proud of representing his country. The fact he got an opportunity to start is good for us – it gives him that confidence that he’s able to get through a game.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

I think Bentancur is probably the best James Maddison replacement in the Spurs squad once he is fully fit. He has a very different style to Maddison, but the Uruguayan can find pockets to drive through and has a good eye for a pass in the final third.

The post Postecoglou hints at position ‘further forward’ for Rodrigo Bentancur at Spurs appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

South Korea took on Singapore in a World Cup qualifier today and they currently sit at the top of Group C. Son netted his country’s third of the game and they are currently four goals to the good with ten minutes left of play.

Tottenham fans will certainly recognise the finish, as Son has scored countless curled edge-of-the-box efforts for the Lilywhites down the years. Check out the goal below:

BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA – JUNE 16: Son Heungmin of South Korea appaluds fans after the international friendly match between South Korea and Peru at Busan Asiad Stadium on June 16, 2023 in Busan, South Korea. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)

Heung-min Son curls in a peach for South Korea

[GOAL] 대한민국 3-0 싱가포르
손흥민존에서 나온 환상적인 감아차기골!
이 공간은 손흥민이 지배합니다!#대한민국 #축구국가대표팀 #월드컵 #2차예선 #다시카타르 #아시아_정상을_향해 pic.twitter.com/kXVe010gxi

— theKFA (@theKFA) November 16, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion:

Hopefully, we see plenty more of these goals throughout the season from Son, especially with James Maddison now out injured for a while. The Spurs captain needs to step up with the goods.

The post Video: Heung-min Son scores trademark curler from outside the box for South Korea appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The report claims that both Mo Salah and Heung-min Son are long-term bog-name targets for the Saudi Pro League, but are ‘almost certainly unavailable’ during the middle of the season.

As such, it is said that attention has turned towards Richarlison and out-of-favour Manchester United winger, Jadon Sancho. Both were apparently subject to interest from Saudi Arabia at the end of the summer transfer window too.

(Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)

Should Tottenham cash in on Richarlison in January?

Al-Ittihad are said to have ‘made a late check’ on Richarlison but Tottenham had no interest in parting with the Brazilian, particularly after Harry Kane had already departed to Bayern Munich.

It remains to be seen whether any Saudi clubs actually come in with bids for Richarlison and a price tag is not mentioned by The Telegraph, although Spurs paid £60m for the striker in 2022 (SkySports).

Spurs Web Opinion:

I would be surprised if Tottenham cashed in during the middle of the season, but if someone came in with a bid for Richarlison that offered to recoup most of the original fee paid, I reckon Daniel Levy would at least take a look at it.

The post Report: Tottenham 26-year-old is now a ‘top target’ for Saudi Arabian clubs in January appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Let’s take a look at five things we learned in defeat:

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 11: Brennan Johnson of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur at Molineux on November 11, 2023 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Lost the Spark –

Partly due to so many changes to the starting XI and partly due to a drop in quality, Tottenham were devoid of any spark today. That quick zip that we associate with Tottenham’s build-up under Ange Postecoglou was missing throughout the 90 minutes. Not only was James Maddison’s creativity missed today, but also the skills of Cristian Romero and Micky Van de Ven in playing out from the back. Whatever the case, others will have to rise to the occasion if Spurs are to consistently score goals still.

Youngsters on the Bench –

There were spots on the bench for Ashley Phillips, Alfie Dorrington, Alejo Veliz, and Jamie Donley today, as Ange Postecoglou handed opportunities for some youngsters to step up and be involved in the squad. The big question is will we see any of them start a game any time soon? Ashley Phillips probably has the best chance of that.

Giovani Lo Celso Decision –

Given how much Spurs lacked creativity today, it might be worth Ange Postecoglou taking a look at Lo Celso as an option from the start. Rodrigo Bentancur could also be an option in a more advanced role, and perhaps he will be ready to start a game in a couple of weeks after the international break. Whatever the case, I worry about a midfield of Bissouma, Sarr and Hojbjerg up against a team like Aston Villa or Man City.

Brennan’s First Goal –

One very slim silver lining for Spurs was that Brennan Johnson got off the mark today. For a long time, it looked like it would be the match-winner. In actual fact, Johnson drifted in and out of the game as Spurs struggled to dictate as they usually do under Postecoglou. But he does look to be making the left side his own, a position that has been occupied by Richarlison, Solomon and Perisic at times already this season.

Bissouma Banned –

It will be a case of one in and one out next game against Aston Villa. Destiny Udogie will return from his suspension, but Yves Bissouma will have to sit one out after collecting his fifth yellow card of the season. The Mali international was not at his best in midfield today and looked a little sloppy at times.

The post Opinion: Five things we learned from Tottenham’s 2-1 defeat to Wolves appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

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

Tottenham Hotspur player ratings vs Wolves

(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Guglielmo Vicario – 7 – Quite a quiet game for the keeper when compared to Monday night, but he made a couple of crucial saves and claims throughout the 90 minutes. A nice tip around the post in the first half was a highlight for him. No chance with the two goals.

Pedro Porro – 8 – A really complete performance from the Spaniard. He assisted Tottenham’s goal with a superb cross into the box, but was also just a constant threat down the right. At the back, it was one of his more solid games too. Can’t blame him for the conceded goals late on.

Eric Dier – 6 – He defended his box really well and made a couple of brave and crucial tackles along the way. Everything looked great for 90 minutes. He then gave away possession with a poor ball out from the back in the build-up to Wolves’ first goal and tried to step up instead of tracking the runner for the second goal.

Ben Davies – 8 – A wonderful performance from Davies. Considering he has just come back from injury, he was so solid for Spurs today. Tackles, interceptions, blocks, clearances, he put himself on the line. Unfortunately, he was slightly let down by his teammates in the end.

Emerson Royal – 6 – He did, at times, look like a right-back playing at left-back, which is understandable. Struggled with the foot races he was challenged to over on that side and never quite imposed himself in the final third like Porro did. Lazy defending that allowed Wolves to score late on too.

Yves Bissouma – 6.5 – A little sloppy at times today, but the game was a little like that, to be fair. Picked up a yellow card that will see him miss the next game and was taken off early by Ange.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg – 7.5 – A battling performance from PEH. This is his kind of game really – a little scrappy and very physical. Postecoglou clearly trusts him a lot to use him over a more creative midfielder, but Spurs did lack a creative spark in there at times.

Pape Matar Sarr – 7 – Was tasked with filling James Maddison’s position today and was a willing runner/presser all day long. He doesn’t have that same creative spark but he makes up for that in effort.

Dejan Kulusevski – 7 – A strange performance from Deki. He started like a house on fire and set up the goal with a lovely piece of skill. Then he drifted out of the game and wasted a few really promising positions to make it 2-0.

Heung-min Son – 6 – Was barely in the game. Spurs didn’t control possession that well throughout the game and Son was a lonely figure up top. When he did get some touches on the ball, it was all a little sloppy from the South Korean.

Brennan Johnson – 7.5 – A brilliantly-timed run and finish. Had a few nice runs down the left but drifted in and out of the game. Could have done better with his chance in the second half. Pulled up with cramp after he skewed his shot.

Substitutes: 

Rodrigo Bentancur – 6 – Came on to give Spurs more control in midfield but is still lacking that match sharpness.

Giovani Lo Celso – 6.5 – Added a bit of a spark and some urgency to midfield. Almost picked out the top corner to make it 2-0 but was denied by a great save.

Bryan Gil – 6 – Added a lot of energy and pressing without ever getting on the ball that much.

The post Opinion: Player ratings from Tottenham’s 2-1 defeat to Wolves appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Guglielmo Vicario was the hero of Monday night, despite Spurs losing 4-1 to Chelsea, and he retains his spot between the sticks once again.

At the back, Pedro Porro is the only survivor from Monday’s XI, with Destiny Udogie and Cristian Romero picking up red cards, and Micky Van de Ven injuring his hamstring.

Instead, Postecoglou names Eric Dier, Ashley Phillips and Ben Davies from the start, although there is a chance Emerson Royal could fill in at left-back if the Welshman is not fully match fit.

In midfield, James Maddison is replaced by Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, with Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma keeping their spots. Giovani Lo Celso may count himself unlucky, while it is still a little too early for Rodrigo Bentancur to start.

Up front, Brennan Johnson, Heung-min Son, and Dejan Kulusevski at least survived Monday as a front three, and the trio start again.

The post Predicted Tottenham XI to take on Wolves – Postecoglou forced to make four changes appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Unfortunately, Ange Postecoglou must mastermind all three points with a much-depleted Tottenham squad, with Micky Van de Ven and James Maddison picking up long-term injuries to go with the suspensions of Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie.

It is set to be a tough few weeks for the Lilywhites as they look to recover some of their unavailable contingents while connecting the dots on the pitch using fringe players.

(Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

We caught up with Tottenham legend and friend of The Spurs Web, Pascal Chimbonda once more to get his best score prediction for the Premier League match.

The Tottenham Predictions

Pascal – 2-1 Tottenham win

Spurs Web – 2-1 Tottenham win

The Rules

The rules are simple – We will be predicting Tottenham scores against Pascal for the entire 2023/24 season. Three points will be awarded for a perfect prediction, while a correct score will get one point.

The Table

Spurs Web – 15 points after 12 games (6 correct results, 3 correct scores)

Pascal – 9 points after 12 games (6 correct results, 1 correct score)

The post Opinion: Pascal Chimbonda vs Spurs Web score prediction – Wolves appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

That being said, it also sounds as though the Tottenham manager is going to stick to his guns, just as he did with nine men against Chelsea on Monday.

He acknowledged the temptation in his press conference this afternoon, but added that he is quite good at not giving in to temptations.

(Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

Postecoglou will keep his usual tactics against Wolves

Spurs will be without long-term absentees James Maddison and Micky Van de Ven, both of whom are unlikely to play again in 2023. Richarlison, Solomon, and Perisic are also injured, while Destiny Udogie and Cristian Romero are suspended due to their red cards on Monday.

The Lilywhites played with a back two of Eric Dier and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg at the end of the Chelsea match, with Emerson Royal also filling in at left-back.

On the temptation to change, Postecoglou said (Football London): “There’s always the temptation but apart from chocolate I’m quite good at not giving in to temptations.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

I think Postecoglou will keep his normal tactics, but adjust the personnel to fit them as best as possible. I expect Ashley Phillips and Eric Dier to start at the back, with Ben Davies on the left and Pedro Porro on the right. Emerson Royal could also fill in at left-back.

The post Postecoglou opens up on the temptation to change his tactics amid Spurs injury crisis appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The statement added that Richarlison will commence rehabilitation with the staff at Hotspur Way immediately and should return to first-team training ‘in the coming weeks’.

This means that Ange Postecoglou is without Richarlison, Manor Solomon, and Ivan Perisic in that left attacking role, while Bryan Gil and Brennan Johnson also only returned from injury recently.

(Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

Richarlison undergoes groin surgery at Spurs

Richarlison informed the media earlier this week that he was set to undergo surgery soon to fix a problem in his pubis, a problem he has been suffering from throughout the season (ESPN).

The Brazilian has been far from his best for the Lilywhites since joining the club from Everton, and will have to fight for his starting spot when he returns towards the end of the year.

Heung-min Son has been deployed down the middle with success by Postecoglou, while there are plenty of players putting their hat in the right for the left-wing spot.

We can confirm that Richarlison has undergone groin surgery today.

The Brazil international will commence his rehabilitation with our medical staff immediately, before returning to training in the coming weeks.

Wishing you a speedy recovery, Richy! pic.twitter.com/DsV6L59aki

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) November 9, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion:

Richarlison needs a hard reset. I was hoping that would happen over the summer, but he has had issues on and off the pitch this season. Hopefully, he can have a heroic moment off the bench when he returns from this injury and that will kickstart some form.

The post Tottenham confirm first-team player has undergone surgery for injury problem appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The Brazil striker was an unused substitute for Tottenham in the chaotic 4-1 defeat to Chelsea last night in North London, with Brennan Johnson starting on the left side of attack instead.

Richarlison revealed that he was told about his position on the bench the day before the match and was disappointed but accepted Ange Postecoglou’s decision.

It has been a week of disappointment for the former Everton man, as he was also left out of Brazil’s upcoming international squad, despite being a regular starter in recent years. Spurs teammate, Emerson Royal, was called up to the team.

However, Richarlison admitted that he did not deserve to be called up to represent his country as he has not been playing well at club level of late.

He then revealed a problem with his pubis, which will require surgery ‘soon’.

(Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

Richarlison to undergo surgery in the near future

Richarlison said (ESPN): “I was sad when I was not called up but I understand Deniz. In his place, I wouldn’t call me up either — I haven’t been playing good football, I’ve been below my best.

“I’ve improved in the last few games. But I need to improve a lot to wear the national team shirt. I have to be playing. I have to be feeling well, I have to be 100 per cent and I haven’t been, I think the manager made the right choice.

“The guys are flying. So it’s up to me to keep working. I’ll definitely be back. I didn’t get here by chance. It’s up to me to work hard every day and get into a rhythm here at Tottenham.

“I was hoping to play here (vs Chelsea) in an important game, a derby. Yesterday, I was told that I wouldn’t be playing, but that’s part of football.

“Every player wants to be called up for the national team. Of course, I was hoping for it but already felt that it was time for a rest.

“The last few months haven’t been easy for me. I’ve had health problems. I’ve already spoken to the doctors and soon I would do surgery on my pubis.

“I’ve been suffering, fighting for my national team and my club for eight months and haven’t been taking care of myself. I think it’s time to rest, to stop for a second. I’ll think about it in the next few days and soon I will do what is best for me.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

The post Spurs star reveals he will have surgery on his pelvis ‘soon’ due to ‘health problems’ appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The five things we learned from Spurs vs Chelsea:

Tottenham Hotspur’s Greek-Australian Head Coach Ange Postecoglou applauds the fans following the English Premier League football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, on November 6, 2023. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Reckless Romero

What can you say about Cristian Romero? Just when you think he has turned a corner and really taken his role as a vice-captain seriously, he has a game like that. He lost his head when he kicked out on the ground, and it remained lost for the minutes that followed as he dived into a silly challenge. Spurs were purring at the time and seemed favourites to score a second, and perhaps a third. Romero took the game and flipped it on its head out of nowhere.

I hope he doesn’t just shrug this one off and instead looks at the 4-1 result and thinks to himself, ‘that was my fault’. As soon as you get a reputation as a centre-back who cannot be trusted to stay on the pitch, or a teammate who cannot be trusted to stay cool under pressure, you may find that you have a very short shelf life as a top Premier League player.

Walking Wounded

As if the result alone wasn’t bad enough, Tottenham also picked up multiple injuries throughout the game. Going into any match this season, Spurs fans would likely highlight Son, Maddison, Romero and Van de Ven as players who simply cannot get injured without the standard dropping considerably. Two of those core four picked up problems last night.

Van de Ven will surely be out for months after his hamstring appeared to go when chasing back towards his own goal, while Maddison appeared to injure his ankle/heel off the ball in the Chelsea box. With any luck, the latter will not be serious, but Postecoglou has some selection nightmares to contend with now.

The Super Subs

Problems created by Romero and Udogie also fashioned chances for certain fringe players to impress, and impress they did. It takes some doing to have 60,000 fans stay until the final whistle and give you a standing ovation when you just lost 4-1. However, the likes of Emerson Royal, Eric Dier, Oliver Skipp, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur showed bravery beyond belief against a two-man deficit last night. If some Spurs players let us down, others certainly showed they can be counted on in times of trouble.

Moving forward, while I previously would have suggested just putting Ashley Phillips and Alfie Dorrington into the centre of defence, seeing as they have a lot of minutes together this season, perhaps the fringe players have earned the right to fight for Postecoglou next week against Wolves.

The Marvelous Vicario

In the midst of a frustrating defeat, Guglielmo Vicario somehow managed to put on a genuinely world-class display of modern goalkeeping. Some outrageous saves when the game was still a normal 11v11 affair, but he became a one-man sweeping brick wall when Spurs were down to ten. If Chelsea were going to exploit the space in behind that Vicario was going to patrol it, and patrol it he did. He must have come off his line and cleared or smothered at least five or six times in the last 30 minutes alone. I think Spurs have a really special goalkeeper on their hands here.

The Fans Were Incredible

12th man, 11th man, 10th man… whatever the fans were last night, they were amazing. Singing their hearts out until the final whistle and staying firmly behind the team no matter how tough it got. In previous years, there would have been boos and mass exits come 4-1, but yesterday there were claps, cheers, and chants of appreciation. We are in this together, and the players definitely know that.

The post Opinion: Five things we learned from Tottenham’s crazy 4-1 defeat to Chelsea appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

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

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 6: Destiny Udogie of Tottenham Hotspur receives a red card for a second yellow during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 6, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)

Tottenham Hotspur Player Ratings vs Chelsea

Guglielmo Vicario – 10 – You could not ask for more. He did not deserve to pick the ball out of his own net four times. Superb save after superb save. Chelsea should have scored up into double figures in the match with their two-man advantage, but Vicario was so quick to fly off his line, make smart stops, and smother the ball while putting his body on the line. Spurs could have a really special keeper here.

Pedro Porro – 9 – Started the game a little awkwardly, giving the ball away in dangerous areas. However, the Spaniard actually thrived under the pressure of having just nine men. Not only did he track run after run in behind, while throwing himself in front of shots, but he was also a constant threat going forward. I’m not sure how he was still standing come full-time.

Cristian Romero – 1 – As a vice-captain of a big football club, you have to lead by example. I had hoped Romero had put this stuff behind him. Today he was petulant, got away with it, and then jumped into a silly challenge to essentially lose Spurs the game. Tottenham were so comfortable at that point too, anything but a red card and I think we walk away with the win.

Micky Van de Ven – 6 – Looked really solid in his stint on the pitch, dealing with the pace in behind well as he always does. Unfortunately, he had to be replaced before half-time due to a nasty hamstring injury. Could be out for a good while with that one.

Destiny Udogie – 2 – Had a pretty sloppy game even before the red card. Perhaps he was rushed back a little from injury because he didn’t look his composed self at times. But there is no excusing diving into a pointless challenge when you are on a yellow and already down to ten. Got lucky earlier in the game to avoid a red too. Spurs were actually still looking dangerous with ten, but nine was too much.

Yves Bissouma – 8 – Wow, did he cover every blade of grass out there. Playing in the pivot role when your side is down to ten, and then nine, is no easy task. Bissouma did the job of two or three players while making it look relatively easy. Let down by a couple of his teammates, unfortunately.

Pape Matar Sarr – 7 – Just the player you need in these tough moments because he can run and run and run. It was only the yellow card he picked up that forced Postecoglou to bring him off early. We wouldn’t want to go down to eight, after all. Picked up the assist for Kulusevski’s opener.

James Maddison – 6 – Looked dangerous in flashes with his twists and turns in the final third. Picked out a nice proactive ball in the build-up to Tottenham’s goal. Unfortunately, he was forced off injured before he really hit top gear.

Dejan Kulusevski – 7.5 – Back to his confident best on the right in the first half hour. Every time he got the ball it looked like something could happen. Got lucky with the deflection for his goal, but he deserved that luck. Always puts in so much effort off the ball when Spurs are up against it.

Heung-min Son – 8 – On another day, Sonny is the hero for equalising at 2-2 and earning a point for nine-man Spurs. Or perhaps for scoring the second in a simple victory, had he made his run slightly later. As it was, Son put in a huge amount of effort up front with little reward.

Brennan Johnson – 6 – Looked a real livewire with space down the left and he was never afraid of taking his man on. Put in a lovely ball to make it 2-0 to Spurs, had it not been for the offside flag. Unlucky to come off when Romero was shown red.

Substitutes: 

Eric Dier – 8.5 – You cannot fault that appearance off the bench. The high line did really seem a struggle for Dier at times when running back to his own goal, but he came up with enough last-ditch interceptions and tackles to impress. Oh, what could have been if that late volley had been allowed by VAR…

Emerson Royal – 8 – Came on and covered in central defence to start with, then left-back when Udogie was shown red. So impressive in both positions. He had the pace to defend the space in behind, but was also just really useful on the ball in possession. I would love him to start next game.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg – 8.5 – Came on as a makeshift central defender and covered himself in glory on and off the ball. A clearance off the line was the highlight for Pierre, but he had countless last-ditch moments for the Lilywhites. Also very composed on the ball up against the Chelsea press.

Oliver Skipp – 7 – As you would expect, he was full of running for Spurs after coming off the bench. There was a whole lot of space to cover for the midfield and Skipp covered as much as humanly possible for one player. Always such high effort levels.

Rodrigo Bentancur – 7.5 – So silky on the ball, he really wriggled out of some tight areas he had no right to wriggle out of. I can’t wait to see him back in the starting XI with all eleven players still on the pitch. Came so close to an equaliser to make it 2-2 but just mistimed it.

The post Opinion: Tottenham player ratings from that wild 4-1 defeat to Chelsea – 10/10 for one man appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.