Spurs have been the bogey team for Guardiola’s City side ever since the Spaniard arrived in Manchester back in 2016.

The Lilywhites have broken City hearts at the Etihad in the final stages of matches on a couple of occasions, including the infamous Champions League quarterfinal back in 2019 and the 3-2 win at the Etihad under Antonio Conte almost two years ago.

History repeated itself on Sunday as Spurs refused to lie down, and fought back to level twice in the second half through Giovani Lo Celso and Kulusevski.

The latter’s winner came in the final minute of normal time, with Johnson delivering a dangerous ball from the left, with the Swede outmuscling Nathan Ake at the far-post to send the ball into the top corner, with Ederson rooted to his spot.

Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Brennan Johnson impressed Pep with his attack

Guardiola told City’s official channel about Tottenham’s equaliser: “It was a good action. Johnson made a good action, made a good delivery for a full-back on the opposite side it is so difficult to defend this action.

“Kulusevski attacked the ball and the second ball they made good high pressing, Julian [Alvarez] should keep the ball and instead pass to Erling [Haaland], but it doesn’t happen.”

Spurs Web Opinion

It would have been easy for the players to lose their heads after the first half, with City all over us like a rash. Their heads could have also dropped after Yves Bissouma’s mistake, which led to Jack Grealish’s 81st-minute goal.

Instead, the Tottenham players kept believing and going at the home side until the end and got just rewards for their bravery and character.

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We did not see the best of Johnson in his first few outings for Spurs, with the winger’s season being interrupted by some injury problems.

However, in the last two matches against Aston Villa and Manchester City, the 22-year-old has shown glimpses of his quality, demonstrating the kind of potential that convinced Tottenham to pay £47.5m for his services in the summer.

The Wales international troubled Josko Gvardiol with his pace and energy in the first half before doing the same in the second to Kyle Walker on the other end of the pitch in the second period.

Meanwhile, Kulusevski started as the number ten once again before moving to his familiar right-wing role in the second half, with Swede being a nuisance both on and off the ball for Pep Guardiola’s men.

(Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images)

Postecoglou wants more goals from Tottenham duo

The pair combined for Tottenham’s 90th-minute equaliser, with Kulusevski outmuscling Nathan Ake to get on the end of Johnson’s cross and send it sailing past Ederson into the top corner.

Ange Postecoglou told BBC Sport about the duo: “Deki [Kulusevski] was excellent the whole game and we count on him attacking the box from that side. 

“Him and Brennan [Johnson] have goals in them, we haven’t had enough out of them yet but they are there. It’s great those two combined for a great goal at the end.”

Spurs Web Opinion

While there has never been any doubt about Kulusevski’s quality, I always felt that a player of his ability needs to contribute more regularly in the final third, which he is now starting to do.

I have been thoroughly impressed by Johnson in his last two performances, with the 22-year-old appearing to grow in confidence with each game.

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There are a lot of similarities between Johnson and the kind of player Son was when he arrived at Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015.

The South Korean was a pacy young attacker with an eye for goal but he was still quite raw at the time and has since continued to evolve every season.

He is now widely recognised as one of the best forwards in the Premier League and that is a transition Johnson will also hope to make at Hotspur Way over the next few years.

When asked about playing with some big names at Spurs, the 22-year-old told the club’s matchday programme (as relayed by Football.London): “I’m loving it – having players that achieved so much is so eye-opening and a confidence boost. 

“For me, it’s only a benefit, Sonny being the main one as he is such a good player and has done so much. I play for the side but there are lots of bits to pick up on such as finishing and movement. There are similarities and differences to learn, for now, I’m just learning as much as I can.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s South Korean striker #07 Son Heung-Min (L) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal with Tottenham Hotspur’s Welsh striker #22 Brennan Johnson during the English Premier League football match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park in south London on October 27, 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)

Brennan Johnson is working hard at Tottenham

It has not been all smooth sailing for Johnson in his first few months at Tottenham as the Wales international’s progress has been hampered by an injury.

The newcomer admitted that the timing of the hamstring problem was not ideal but insisted that on the whole, he has been pleased with his transition to his new surroundings.

When asked about his injury, the former Nottingham Forest star said: “It was frustrating. Especially after getting my teeth into things, playing against Sheffield United and Arsenal and unfortunately picking up the injury which put me out for about a month.

“It felt like it was staggered in terms of settling in but it’s really nice to be back with the team, back playing and the football we’ve been playing has been positive on the whole.”

Spurs Web Opinion

There is no doubt that Johnson’s ceiling is quite high as there are very few weaknesses in his game. Like Son, I would not be surprised if he ends up developing into more of a centre-forward in the years to come.

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Johnson impressed in his debut Premier League season last term and Spurs ended up paying £47.5m to sign the versatile attacker on transfer deadline day.

According to various reports, Ange Postecoglou himself pushed for the 22-year-old to be signed, with the Australian said to rate the youngster as one of the best young players in the Premier League (Telegraph).

Johnson has admitted that the decision to leave his boyhood club was not easy but insisted that the time was right to make a step up.

The winger told Tottenham’s matchday programme (as relayed by Football.London): “Spurs have such good plans for me, and it was the right decision to make this step.

“Being at Forest for that long, knowing so many people and having all my friends and family from there it was a hard decision to make.

“But it was the right time, especially coming to a club here that’s so forward-thinking and has such a great team, manager and staff. I had seen them play already this season and was so impressed, it suited me at this point in my career and it’s pleasing they were able to get it done – I’m so happy.”

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)

Postecoglou was clear in chat with Brennan Johnson

Johnson remarked that there are similarities between Steve Cooper and Postecoglou work, revealing that the latter was clear in the summer about where he would fit into his system.

When asked about the differences between the Forest boss and the Tottenham head coach, the Wales international said: “They’re both similar in that they don’t think they’re anything they’re not.

“They’re really nice guys as well as great managers and I have full respect for both of them. Steve gave lots of trust to me, especially in the final third, he wanted me to express myself and show my ability.

“Ange speaks so well. I don’t think he wanted to overcomplicate things. He knew me and told me I’d fit into the system well and what he wants me to do isn’t too different to Forest.”

The pacy attacker admitted that he is still developing in his new role at Spurs, adding that the way the team plays is a perfect match for his attributes.

Johnson continued: “Under him (Postecoglou) it’s about trusting yourself, believing in yourself and playing to the system because there are different things I need to adapt to.

“As everyone sees it’s a refreshing place to be, with the manager, new players and the ones that were already here and everyone getting behind it.

“Once I’m fully involved, I’ll know where to be – I’m developing now and he told me it was the right thing to do, and the team suits the way I play, it’s a perfect match.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Over the past couple of games, we are starting to see just why Postecoglou was so keen on bringing Johnson to the club. The 22-year-old’s display against Aston Villa was arguably his best of the season so far, with the winger creating a lot of problems with his directness.

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There has been a lot of discussion about the number nine role at Spurs, with Son Heung-min having plenty of success since being moved to the centre-forward role.

However, things have not clicked for Richarlison in front of goal, which is why there have been suggestions that Tottenham could enter the market for a striker in January.

The likes of Brentford’s Ivan Toney (Daily Express), Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez (90 min), Lille’s Jonathan David (TEAMtalk) and Fiorentina’s Dusan Vlahovic (CaughtOffside) have all been mooted as targets for Spurs.

However, it has been suggested by some sources over recent days that Tottenham are not expected to sign a centre-forward, with Postecoglou happy with Son and Richarlison as his options (Dean Jones – GiveMeSport).

(Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)

Could Johnson be used as Spurs’ main striker?

The other left-field choice the Spurs boss has is to play Johnson through the middle, with the 22-year-old featuring regularly for Wales as the central striker.

The former Nottingham Forest man led the line for the Dragons once again in their World Cup qualifier against Tukey on Tuesday, with the spoils being shared between the sides at the Cardiff City Stadium.

During the game, Ward told BBC Sport website: “Brennan Johnson, he’s not small, but he’s not quite got that upper body strength and ability to hold a player off as you need to do as a number nine at times.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Johnson is also quite accustomed to playing as the number ten, which is now an option that Ange has since Maddison is out of action until the New Year. However, it seems like the Spurs boss prefers to have the 22-year-old’s pace and directness on the flank.

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The Dragons played out a 1-1 draw with Turkey at the Cardiff City Stadium, with Neco Willaims giving them the lead seven minutes before Lille midfielder Yusuf Yazici equalised from the spot for the visitors on 70 minutes.

The result capped off a disappointing international break for Wales, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Armenia last week.

Robert Page’s men have finished in third place in Group D, which means that they will be forced to go into the play-offs to qualify for Euro 2024.

(Photo by Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Brennan Johnson impresses for Wales again

Johnson, who had found the back of the net in his last outing for Tottenham, led the line for his country and the attacker was seemingly one of the bright spots for Wales on the night.

Wales Online gave the former Nottingham Forest man a rating of 7/10, noting that he was not easy to defend against.

They wrote about the 22-year-old: “Should have been awarded a penalty in first-half after getting barged in the back by Akaydin. Pace caused problems all night.”

Spurs Web Opinion

It sounds like Johnson would be returning to Spurs relatively high on confidence after his display on Tuesday. With the attacking talent that Postecoglou is currently without, he needs the 22-year-old to deliver over the coming weeks.

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The Welshman has had to watch on from the bench for much of the campaign, with Destiny Udogie making the left-back spot his own.

The 29-year-old was asked to deputise at centre-back against Wolves last Saturday, owing to Cristian Romero’s suspension and Micky van de Ven’s injury, and he delivered a solid display even though Spurs fell to a disappointing defeat.

Davies might have to continue playing in that position a while longer, with Van de Ven expected to be out until January (The Telegraph) and the experienced defender insisted that he is ready to help the team wherever required.

He said (via Football.London): “When we do well as a team it’s not always easy to get people out of the team. It’s when those chances come, you’ve got to be ready to take them.”

(Photo by Pakawich Damrongkiattisak/Getty Images)

Ben Davies is a big fan of Ange Postecoglou at Spurs

The former Swansea man also spoke highly of Postecoglou and the role clarity the Aussie coach has given the players.

Davies continued: “[Postecoglou] has been great since he’s come in. He’s been a breath of fresh air. He has given us clear roles within the team and it is a pleasure to play for him.”

His international teammate, Brennan Johnson got his first goal for the Lilywhites at the Molineux Stadium and Davies has suggested that the winger has already shown glimpses of his quality despite his injuries.

When asked about the 22-year-old’s impact, the defender responded: “Brennan has been great. He missed quite a bit of football last month as well, so as time drags on, it doesn’t necessarily go with the amount of game time he’s had. He has been very good for us since he came in and I’m very lucky I’ve got him here at Wales as well.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Davies is not used to playing as a centre-back in a back four but he showed against Wolves that he is more than capable of playing in that position in Ange’s system. I would not be surprised if the 29-year-old keeps his place in the side ahead of Dier when Romero returns from his suspension.

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Tottenham made the ideal start at Molineux as Johnson showed great awareness to get goal-side of Nelson Semedo, with the Welshman producing a smart finish after his perfectly-timed run was picked out by Pedro Porro.

However, it all went downhill from there for the away side as Wolves kept knocking on the door and eventually got their reward in stoppage-time, with two quick-fire goals consigning Spurs to their second consecutive loss.

Johnson said after the game to Spurs Play that the players were devastated at the nature of the loss but admitted that they cannot have too many complaints about the result.

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)

How many goals will Johnson score this season?

Postecoglou has earmarked the 22-year-old’s first goal for the club as a positive, admitting that he hopes the player can now kick on after a disruptive star to his Tottenham career.

When asked if the goal can serve as a confidence boost to Johnson, the Australian said (via the club’s official website): “I hope so. It’s not the only measure. He’s one of the ones I think could have been a bit more positive for us in the first half but, again, Brennan’s not really had a clear run at it.

“He’s had a real disrupted beginning to his career for us and I think the more we can get him into these situations there are definitely goals in him.

“There’s more of a goal threat in him but, again, you could see at the end he ran out of legs because he hasn’t played a lot of football since the start of the year.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Johnson’s performance in the first 30 minutes against Wolves was arguably the best he has played in a Spurs shirt so far. The 22-year-old will get better as he gets more accustomed to the system and learns about the strengths and weaknesses of his new teammates.

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It was always going to be extremely difficult for Ange Postecoglou’s men to emerge with a result from the Molineux Stadium, given the number of key players they were missing.

However, the afternoon got off to the perfect start for the away side as Johnson gave them the lead with his first goal for Spurs just three minutes into the encounter.

The Lilywhites held the lead for almost the entirety of the game as Gary O’Neil’s men spurned several chances to equalise, and it looked like Tottenham were going to clinch all three points.

Wolves then did to Spurs what the Lilywhites did to Sheffield United back in September, netting two goals in stoppage time to seal a dramatic win.

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)

Brennan Johnson admits Spurs mistake vs Wolves

Johnson admitted that he and his teammates should have looked to put the game to bed rather than sitting on their lead.

The winger told Spurs Play after the 2-1 loss about the nature of the loss: “It happens in football, we’ve enjoyed late goals and now we’re tasting defeat and it’s really sickening. All the boys are feeling the same.

“We can’t complain too much because we didn’t really kill the game off. It’s tough to take but it’s about how we perform. There were certain things we could have done better in terms of moving the ball and getting into better positions.

“We started well, it came with a goal, but after that, we went back into the headspace of getting three points and that’s not the mentality to have. We wanted to be safe, we went into safety mode where if we see it out we’ll get three points.”

Spurs Web Opinion

We certainly did not deserve to get anything from the match. The game would have served as a vital learning curve for Ange Postecoglou and his coaching staff on the strengths and weaknesses of the different players in the squad.

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The rise of Brennan Johnson has been a joy to behold for the neutral, with the young Welshman coming through the ranks at Nottingham Forest and helping to fire his boyhood club to a return to the Premier League.

Last season, Johnson scored eight league goals as Forest maintained their top-flight status (Transfermarkt).

Tottenham came knocking this summer, however, and Johnson left behind his beloved club in a £47.5m switch on transfer deadline day (Sky Sports).

Between injury issues and fierce competition from the likes of Richarlison and Manor Solomon, Johnson has been in and out of Ange Postecoglou‘s lineup. 

When he has played, Johnson has looked lively, and even bagged a fine assist in the win over Crystal Palace last month (Transfermarkt).

Tottenham Hotspur’s South Korean striker #07 Son Heung-Min (L) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal with Tottenham Hotspur’s Welsh striker #22 Brennan Johnson during the English Premier League football match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park in south London on October 27, 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)

What did David Beckham say to Johnson?

It seems Johnson might have a lucky charm thanks to one of his dad’s famous friends. Turns out none other than David Beckham has been sending Johnson words of encouragement.

Johnson told The Mirror (05/11/23, page 63): “He just wished me all the best at Tottenham. Of course, coming from a player like that, it’s crazy. It’s disbelief for me. I’m not claiming to be mates with him. He is a similar age to my dad and they played together.

“He has sent me a few other nice messages before – after going up with Forest, after signing a new contract or whatever. It’s really nice of him and definitely not something I’d take for granted.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Brennan Johnson has shown great promise in his early days at Tottenham, and he’s only going to keep getting better, too. Hopefully, he can get a good run in the team soon and really get some momentum (and a goal).

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Johnson had been at Nottingham Forest since the age of eight, having come through the age group ranks before breaking into the first team.

Spurs saw enough from the 22-year-old in his debut Premier League campaign last season to pay £47.5m for his services in the summer.

Comparisons with Gareth Bale are inevitable, given that Johnson is another pacy Welsh attacker looking to make a name for himself in N17, and he admitted that the Spurs legend was one of his inspirations growing up.

Johnson told The Daily Mail about Bale: “Watching him and seeing how well he did here and how much he progressed as a player was definitely a factor to me wanting to come to this club.

“Of course, it was a different time, different managers, but it’s just the club that they are, they’re really developing and they’re always forward-thinking. Watching Bale growing up, he was one of my favourite players. Watching him play for this club did give me a drive to want to do it as well.”

(Photo by Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Brennan Johnson is ready to step up at Spurs

The new Spurs man admitted that the decision to leave the City Ground was a difficult one but insisted that it was the right time for him to make the move.

He said about the transfer: “It was a big decision to leave. Being at the club for that long and knowing so many people there and all my family was from there, it was a really hard decision to make but it was the right time and the right club. It was the right decision.’

Johnson has not only played for Forest in the Championship but also had a spell in League One on loan at Lincoln City, with the youngster admitting that the experiences in the EFL helped him mature on and off the pitch.

The attacker said about playing in the lower leagues: “It teaches you a lot. It opens your eyes playing in the lower leagues because when you’re growing up, you’re used to Academy football.

“As good as it is to develop you, technically and physically, I think mentally playing in lower leagues and dealing with strong tackles or bad dressing rooms or bad pitches, it helps you as an overall person as well as the player.”

Spurs Web Opinion

The one similarity between all of Tottenham’s summer signings is the fact that they have grafted their way up to the top level, having started several rungs below, just as Postecoglou did in his managerial career.

That is a factor that the Australian would have taken into account as he might have wanted players who had made sacrifices to get where they were and possessed a growth mindset.

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Johnson’s only start for Tottenham since his big-money move from Nottingham Forest in the summer came in September’s North London derby at the Emirates.

The winger did miss a couple of matches due to a hamstring problem but he has recovered and came on as a second-half substitute in the recent wins over Fulham and Crystal Palace.

Richarlison, despite coming under some criticism for his lack of goals this season (talkSPORT), has performed quite well since being moved to the left.

Tottenham Hotspur’s South Korean striker #07 Son Heung-Min (L) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal with Tottenham Hotspur’s Welsh striker #22 Brennan Johnson during the English Premier League football match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park in south London on October 27, 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)

Will it be Richarlison or Johnson vs Chelsea?

However, Kilpatrick pointed out that the impact Johnson made off the bench at Selhurst Park leaves Postecoglou with a big decision to make, adding that the rest of the side picks itself.

The journalist wrote: “Postecoglou has a decision to make in his front three, with Brennan Johnson pushing to start ahead of Richarlison on the left after a lively cameo from the bench at Selhurst Park.

“Johnson set up Heung-min Son’s goal and could make his second Spurs start against the Blues. The rest of Postecoglou’s side picks itself, with the head coach thought to have no fresh injury concerns in the squad.”

Postecoglou admitted in his pre-match press conference that both Destiny Udogie and Ben Davies are doubts about his evening’s game (Football.London), while Tottenham are also without their long-term absentees – Ryan Sessegonon, Manor Solomon and Ivan Perisic.

Spurs Web Opinion

I expect Postecoglou to start with Richarlison and bring Johnson on in the latter stages of the game against tired legs. I believe that the Brazilian warrants his place in the starting eleven, particularly given how well he played in the last home game against Fulham.

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Ange Postecoglou has started Richarlison on the left in the past few Premier League games and the Brazilian has delivered a few tidy displays, even though he has got on the scoresheet just once so far this season.

Johnson has started just one game for Tottenham since his big-money move from Forest in the summer, with the pacy winger missing a couple of matches due to a hamstring problem.

The 22-year-old made an instant impact after replacing Richarlison on 64 minutes at Selhurst Park, setting up Son Heung-min for Tottenham’s second.

The Wales international headed a cross-field pass from Pedro Porro onto James Maddison’s path before continuing his run into the box receiving the ball and finding Son just a few yards in front of the goal.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 23: Richarlison of Tottenham Hotspur and Joao Palhinha of Fulham FC during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 23, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

Should Johnson replace Richarlison at Spurs?

Robertson believes that we will see Johnson coming into Postecogluo’s starting eleven soon and remarked that it would be difficult for Richarlison to get much game time, given that Tottenham have no European football this season.

The pundit said on The Game Football Podcast: “The only question mark is that Brennan Johnson will get into that starting XI soon, and I think Richarlison needs to do something. 

“There’s more competition, there’s no European football, they’re out of the first cup and they’d probably be happy to go out of the second cup if they keep up this form.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I have a feeling that Postecoglou would start with Ricaharlison once again for the clash against Chelsea and use Johnson as an impact substitute off the bench. 

The Brazilian has certainly not been terrible on the left. In fact, I thought he had quite a good game against Fulham and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.

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It wasn’t easy, but Tottenham will go into the weekend with a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table after defeating Crystal Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park.

Ange Postecoglou‘s side dominated possession throughout, but were unable to turn that control of the ball into clear-cut chances in the same manner as they have so far this season.

The high press which has become a Spurs trademark was to thank for the first goal, as James Maddison pressured the Palace defenders into mistakes that ultimately led to a Joel Ward own goal.

Maddison then joined forces with Brennan Johnson, who came on as a substitute, with the pair weaving through the Palace back line to set up Heung-min Son for yet another goal for the Tottenham captain.

A late goal from Jordan Ayew piled on the pressure in injury time, but Spurs were able to hold on and grab all three points tonight.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates with teammate Emerson (L) and Brennan Johnson of Tottenham Hotspur after scoring the team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park on October 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Ange happy with his Tottenham subs vs Palace

While Brennan Johnson arguably had the biggest impact of all the players to come off the bench tonight, Postecoglou has also recognised Emerson Royal and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s influence on the game, with the pair replacing Ben Davies and Yves Bissouma, respectively.

In his post-match press conference (via Football.London), Postecoglou said: “Brennan was great. He’s had to be patient as he’s had a couple of setbacks obviously so we haven’t really seen him in any consistent game time or training time but the last couple of weeks he’s worked hard at training.

“I thought all the subs who came on… I thought Pierre helped us get control of midfield, I thought Emerson at left-back was outstanding. Those kinds of things are helping us at the moment, the guys coming on and helping us see out games.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Brennan Johnson should be delighted with his performance today. I thought he came on and really wanted to make things happen, and his hard work paid off with an assist.

Emerson was brilliant in a position he doesn’t normally play, and put in a really good shift. And Hojbjerg was his usual, sturdy self, and is proving to be a player we can really depend on to manage the game.

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Many of Tottenham’s first-team players are returning from international duty in the coming hours, and Ange Postecoglou will be hoping to avoid any unwanted knocks.

One man who stayed behind at Hotspur Way over the past week is new signing, Brennan Johnson, who went without a Wales call-up due to an injury he picked up for Spurs.

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 24: Brennan Johnson of Tottenham Hotspur in action with Benjamin White of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Brennan Johnson could return for Spurs vs Fulham

Tottenham are now said to be hopeful that Johnson will feature against Fulham, although it is not revealed whether this could be from the start or the bench.

Either way, it appears that week in the treatment room has done the former Nottingham Forest forward some good, especially since Spurs are already without Ivan Perisic and Manor Solomon.

Spurs Web Opinion:

Postecoglou clearly wanted Johnson in the summer, so I am really interested to see what his role will be once he gets back to full fitness.

Having some youth in the front line to press for 90 minutes will certainly do the Spurs squad some good, and competition for places is never a bad thing.

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Brennan Johnson has been out with a hamstring problem since the North London derby, with the pacy winger missing the wins over Liverpool and Luton Town.

The versatile attacker was not part of the Wales squad during the international break but The  Standard reveals that there is some hope of the 22-year-old being fit for the clash against the Cottagers.

However, the report explains that there is still some doubt over Johnson’s involvement and he is not guaranteed to feature on Monday.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 10: Rodrigo Bentancur of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the Tottenham Hotspur training session at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on November 10, 2022 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Rodrigo Bentancur should be back in a month

There is some good news regarding Rodrigo Bentancur, who continues to step up his recovery and looks on course to return to action in November,

The outlet reveals that another long-term absentee, Ryan Sessegnon, could also be back in action next month, with the left-back set to be gradually introduced to the squad over the coming weeks.

Manor Solomon is not expected to be fit until the end of the year while Ivan Perisic remains out with an ACL injury.

Spurs Web Opinion

It appears like all of Tottenham’s international stars have come through unscathed through this round of fixtures but we cannot be sure about that until they all report back to Hotspur Way.

The one advantage this time around is the fact that we do not play until Monday, which should give those players a couple of extra days to recover.

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The relatively little-known Aussie is drawing plaudits from pundits and fans alike for the way he sets out his teams, his refreshing personality and his clear will to win.

His wider recognition has led to two Premier League Manager of the Month awards for his first two months in the job, the first time a manager in the league has ever achieved this.

The signings Postecoglou has made so far during his tenure in the Tottenham dugout, on paper to the average Spurs fan, looked promising but no one could have predicted the immediate impact that some of them have made.

Part of his philosophy is to develop young players, both signing them himself and from the youth system, and that is evident upon viewing a list of his additions.

Including future acquisitions and players agreeing to join at a later date, a total of ten new signings were brought in during Postecoglou’s first transfer window, and those signings will all be graded out of 10…

Rating Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham signings

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 19: Pedro Porro of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on August 19, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images)

Pedro Porro – Loan deal made permanent from Sporting, reported £39m

Having had a shaky start to life in N17, with his full debut coming in that 4-1 defeat to Leicester City in February, Pedro Porro has firmly established himself as one of the league’s best right-backs.

This was evident during his commanding display against Liverpool, where not only did his late driven cross find the back of the net off the foot of the unfortunate Joel Matip, but his defensive awareness and strong tackling ensured a quiet day at the office for Mo Salah, and firmly put to bed any doubts about his defensive abilities.

He looks to have come into his own under Postecoglou, freed from the shackles of Antonio Conte’s back five for his opening two months at Tottenham, and, at 24 years of age, is likely to only improve from here. 7.5/10

Dejan Kulusevski, loan move from Juventus made permanent, reported £25m

It seems that Dejan Kulusevski has been at Tottenham for ages, even though he is technically a new signing, the former Juventus man joining in January 2022 on an initial 18-month loan, with Postecoglou triggering the option to buy the Swedish international over the summer.

Another player who looks to have come under life under a new manager, Kulusevski is quickly putting a disappointing 2022/23 behind him, and our own “ginger from Sweden” is proving undroppable and unstoppable once again on the wing.

The scorer of the winning goal against Sheffield United already this term, completing the latest comeback in Premier League history, ‘Deki’’s work rate and endless determination has won the Spurs fans over again, after a fairly turbulent previous season on a personal level. 7.5/10

Guglielmo Vicario, from Empoli, reported £16m

The first ‘proper’ new signing for the season, it has been a fine start to life in N17 for goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. Despite some quite unstable performances in pre-season, his shot-stopping prowess is already proving a hit with the Spurs faithful and justifying every penny that Spurs paid for him.

It is a testament to the impact of Vicario that his former side, Empoli, comfortably mid-table in the Italian Serie A last season, are struggling in the relegation zone this year without their shot-stopper.

Overall, it’s fair to say that Vicario is becoming more and more comfortable with life in England with every passing week, proving he is not just a ‘cheaper David Raya’. 8/10

James Maddison, from Leicester City, reported £40m

The first true ‘statement’ signing of the Postecoglou era, and James Maddison has exceeded expectations.

A star man of the Leicester team for so long, Spurs beat numerous other clubs, including Newcastle, to his signature when the Foxes were relegated at the end of last season, and his impact on and off the pitch has been sensational, having been appointed vice-captain before a ball was even kicked this season.

Currently, the top provider of assists in the Premier League with five, and with two goals to his name, Maddison’s Spurs career has got off to a flying start, earning him a recall to the England squad, and a well-deserved Premier League Player of the Month award for August.

If he can stay fit all season, who knows how far he can help take this young, hungry Spurs team? 9.5/10

Manor Solomon, free transfer

Eyebrows were raised when Manor Solomon was brought in on a free transfer, upon the expiration of his contract at Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk.

However, the former Fulham man has proven himself to be a capable winger when called upon, as was evident with his two assists on his first start for Spurs in the 5-2 win at Burnley.

Unfortunately out for a few months due to an injury suffered in training, and subsequent operation, Solomon will look to hit the ground running when he returns, and prove himself to be the exciting winger that Ange Postecoglou is looking for. 6/10

Ashley Phillips, from Blackburn Rovers, £2m

It almost seems unfair that a grade has to be given for an 18-year-old centre back, signed from the Championship, with no first-team appearances yet for Spurs.

However, Ashley Phillips has proven a commanding presence at centre-back for the youth team, and has nine caps for England’s Under 19 team.

A composed centre-back, comfortable with the ball at his feet, and with first-team experience having made eight appearances in the Championship for Blackburn Rovers, Phillips is undoubtedly one to watch for the future. 5/10

Micky van de Ven, from Wolfsburg, reported £30m

The transfer saga that seemed to last a lifetime finally ended with Spurs getting their man, and what a signing Dutch centre-back Micky van de Ven has turned out to be.

A string of sensational performances at the back alongside Cristian Romero, culminating in his first goal in Lilywhite away to Luton Town, it is clear that van de Ven is the authoritative centre-back that Tottenham so desperately desired to form a rock-solid partnership with Romero.

Being just 22 years old, van de Ven will surely have a long and successful career in North London and with the Dutch national team, who, amazingly, he is still without a cap for – only a matter of time surely. 9/10

Alejo Veliz, from Rosario Central, reported £13m

Again, it does not seem fair that a grade has to be provided for Alejo Veliz, with the young Argentine striker having played just ten minutes of Premier League football so far this season.

Moreover, he was on the pitch as the winning goal was scored against Liverpool, so it could be said that he already has a winning mentality…

An exciting signing from his native Argentina, the 20-year-old has bags of potential and, as he progresses, will surely be looking to knock on the door of the starting XI before long. 6.5/10

Brennan Johnson, from Nottingham Forest, reported £45m

Another young player with raw potential, Brennan Johnson was signed on Deadline Day from Nottingham Forest to provide competition in forward areas – however picked up a knock during the North London Derby and has not played since.

An unquestionably lively player, epitomised by the fact he scored immediately after coming on as a substitute against Sheffield United, though it was disallowed for offside, Johnson has a hunger and desire when he plays and, in the long run, will be an ideal option for Postecoglou. 7/10

Luka Vuskovic, from Hajduk Split, reported £9.5m

The only player to not pull on the Tottenham shirt for a match yet, unable to join the club until 2025, Luka Vuskovic is a highly-rated Croatian central defender, and Spurs, who are no strangers to welcoming Croatian talent, beat competition from other elite European clubs to sign him.

Provided that Ange Postecoglou stays to welcome him to the club, and therefore aids his development so that he becomes a starting centre-back, we look to have a real player on our hands. One to watch for sure. 6/10

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Ange Postecoglou’s side signed Johnson from Nottingham Forest in a £47.5m deal on the final day of the summer transfer window with the Welsh international having penned a six-year deal with the Premier League table toppers (Guardian).

(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Everton were keen to sign Brennan Johnson before Spurs move

The report claims that Johnson, along with Mohammed Kudus, Morgan Gibbs-White and Nicolas Jackson have all been high up on the shopping list of the Everton hierarchy, however, issues with finances have been one of the reasons why they have failed to land their targets.

Johnson limped off against Arsenal in the North London derby and missed the subsequent victories over Liverpool and Luton Town, while also not being called up to the Wales squad for their international fixtures.

SpursWeb Opinion

Tottenham fans will be hoping that Johnson can put his hamstring issues behind him and return to fitness for the trip to Fulham following the international break.   

Injuries to both Manor Solomon and Ivan Perisic who both face lengthy spells on the sidelines represent an opportunity for the 22-year-old to look to force his way into Ange Postecoglou’s starting eleven.

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One thing Spurs have not struggled with so far this season is attacking. The Lilywhites have been playing fantastic football this term, and are one of the top-scorers in the division.

Ange Postecoglou has implemented his style of play very quickly since arriving in North London, and Ange-ball has helped Spurs climb to the top of the table after an unbeaten start to the new campaign.

The Tottenham squad may be flying right now, but there are some concerns over the amount, and extent, of injured players within the side.

A report from the Evening Standard revealed Brennan Johnson is out until after the international break, while fellow winger Manor Solomon could be out until the end of this year.

Worse yet, is the situation surrounding Ivan Perisic. The veteran star has been hit with an ACL injury and is likely to miss the whole season.

(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Tottenham Hotspur may move for Jota

With this in mind, the latest update from CaughtOffside suggests Spurs will look to sign a new left-sided winger in January. And, it seems Jota will be the target.

The former Celtic man, previously signed by Postecoglou during his time in Scotland, has been “sidelined” by Saudi side Al-Ittihad despite only joining the club in the summer.

Postecoglou’s “main priority” will be to “bolster the left flank” and there is thought to be “a potential transfer” in the pipeline for Jota come January.

Spurs Web Opinion

I’m not so sure we would need to sign a new winger in January. Solomon should be back by the end of the year, and Bryan Gil has just returned from his injury, too. I’d rather see us sign a new centre-back, personally. 

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Things are going pretty well for Tottenham right now. With six wins and two draws from the opening eight games of this campaign, the Lilywhites head into the international break at the top of the Premier League.

At present, Spurs are thriving thanks to the attacking talent of Heung-min Son and James Maddison, while Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are forming a solid partnership in defence.

However, there is always the fear that an injury to any of these key players could derail the squad’s momentum.

Indeed, Spurs are already having to deal with a number of long-term injuries to a handful of first-team players which has left the squad looking a little thin.

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 12: Rodrigo Bentancur of Tottenham Hotspur arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 12, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

When will the injured Spurs players be back?

A piece in the Evening Standard offers an insight into when these injured players will be back to fitness and available for selection.

The one big injury still carrying over from last season is the ACL issue for Rodrigo Bentancur. Fans can’t wait to see the Uruguay international doing his thing under Ange Postecoglou, but the club are not rushing him and his return date is still scheduled for November of this year.

There is good news on Brennan Johnson, however. The new signing is out with a hamstring injury at the moment and will miss international duty with Wales, but he is almost certain to return on October 23, for the game against Fulham.

Fellow new signing, Manor Solomon, suffered a knee injury recently and has undergone surgery. There is currently “no exact timeframe” on his recovery, but he is “unlikely to play a major role” before the end of 2023, with a December return predicted. 

If you thought that was bad, spare a thought for Ivan Perisic. With a complex ACL injury, it is suspected the Croatian may have “potentially played his final game for the club,” with a return to fitness not expected until summer 2024, when his contract expires.

Similarly to Bentancur, Ryan Sessegnon has been out of action since February, and is expected to return next month. He has been taking part in individual training sessions, but any involvement in wider first-team sessions is “not imminent.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Once we get Brennan Johnson back, this injury list will feel a lot more manageable, and then hopefully there won’t be too long to wait until Bentancur and Sessegnon return. We just have to pray we don’t get any more injuries in the meantime.

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