What Lucas Bergvall is doing behind the scenes at Tottenham to be fit for Europa League final – journalist
In what has become a season-defining moment for both clubs, Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming Europa League final against Manchester United takes on even greater significance given their disappointing domestic campaigns.
Currently languishing in 16th and 17th place respectively, these two Premier League giants now view European glory as their last chance for redemption.
For Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, the potential return of teenage sensation Lucas Bergvall from injury could provide a much-needed creative spark in midfield when they face the Red Devils next week.
The 19-year-old Swedish midfielder, who suffered a training injury prior to Tottenham’s clash with Bodo/Glimt, has been working tirelessly to regain fitness in time for the final.
Reports from reliable sources close to the club indicate Bergvall is pushing himself to the limit in rehabilitation, with the youngster determined to feature in what would represent the biggest match of his burgeoning career.
His presence on the pitch, even in a limited capacity, could prove invaluable for a Spurs side that has struggled with creativity in recent weeks.
Tottenham’s defensive unit appears settled heading into the final, with Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero forming a solid center-back partnership flanked by full-backs Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro.
The midfield duo of Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma, who impressed during the semifinal victory, are almost certain to start.
However, it’s the advanced midfield role that presents Postecoglou with his biggest selection headache.
Should Bergvall fail to prove his fitness in time, the manager faces a difficult decision between the industry of Pape Matar Sarr and the unpredictability of Wilson Odobert as alternative options in the number ten position.
Further forward, the attacking trident will likely feature the in-form Dominic Solanke and Brennan Johnson, with competition for the third spot between Richarlison, Mathys Tel, and the potentially returning Son Heung-min adding another layer of intrigue to Tottenham’s team selection.
Bergvall’s potential involvement carries particular significance given his impressive performances this season and the imminent contract extension that reflects the club’s faith in his abilities.
His technical quality and vision could provide the missing link in a Spurs midfield that has often looked one-dimensional without James Maddison’s inventiveness.
The young Swede’s ability to receive the ball in tight spaces and pick incisive passes might prove crucial against a Manchester United side that has shown vulnerability when pressed in central areas.
As the countdown to the final begins, all eyes will be on Bergvall’s fitness tests in the coming days.
His possible return represents more than just another selection option for Postecoglou – it symbolizes the youthful energy and fearless attitude that Tottenham will need to overcome their Premier League struggles and secure European silverware.
For a club that has endured a turbulent season, having their brightest young talent available for the final could provide the psychological boost needed to upset the odds against their domestic rivals.
The stage is set for what promises to be a fascinating tactical battle between two underperforming giants seeking salvation in continental competition.
Whether Bergvall features or not, his race against time to be fit has added another compelling narrative to a final that already carries enormous significance for both clubs’ seasons and their managers’ futures.