Ange must unleash “world class” Spurs phenom tonight who Man United have tried to sign
This season has been another emotional rollercoaster for Tottenham Hotspur fans, much like the previous year. While Ange Postecoglou has not yet resolved the team’s long-standing consistency issues, he has undeniably transformed Spurs into one of the most entertaining sides to watch, both at home and on the road.
However, for loyal supporters, entertaining football alone is not enough. They long for a trophy, and many hope Postecoglou can be the manager to finally bring silverware back to the club.
Tonight’s League Cup quarter-final against Manchester United holds immense significance. To secure a place in the semi-finals, Postecoglou must field his strongest side, including a key player who once caught United’s interest but now shines in Tottenham colors.
Spurs’ Recent Form
Despite an impressive 5-0 win over Southampton in their last outing, Tottenham’s form leading up to that victory has been inconsistent at best. A string of disappointing results this month has left fans frustrated.
From blowing a 2-0 lead to lose 4-3 against Chelsea to a narrow defeat at Bournemouth and lackluster draws against Fulham, AS Roma, and Rangers, Spurs have struggled to maintain momentum.
| Competition | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| PL | Southampton (A) | 5-0 (W) |
| UEL | Rangers (A) | 1-1 (D) |
| PL | Chelsea (H) | 3-4 (L) |
| PL | Bournemouth (A) | 0-1 (L) |
| PL | Fulham (H) | 1-1 (D) |
The Southampton performance came as a pleasant surprise, offering hope that it could mark the start of a positive turnaround. However, to build on that result, Postecoglou must deploy one of his most crucial players in tonight’s clash—Dejan Kulusevski. The Swedish international has been in fine form this season and could be the difference-maker against Manchester United.
The Key to Success: Dejan Kulusevski
Kulusevski’s contributions this season have been nothing short of remarkable. With five goals and seven assists in just 24 appearances, he averages a goal involvement every other game. His ability to excel in multiple roles, including on the wing and in midfield, has made him an indispensable part of the squad.
In fact, Kulusevski’s best performance of the season came against Manchester United earlier in the campaign, where he not only scored but also created nine chances—a feat not achieved by an away player since 2003/04.
| Statistic | Per 90 | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive Carries | 5.20 | Top 2% |
| Touches in Opposition Box | 6.37 | Top 4% |
| Non-Penalty Goals | 0.29 | Top 5% |
| Shot-Creating Actions | 5.49 | Top 5% |
| Expected Assists | 0.27 | Top 5% |
| Progressive Passes Received | 8.49 | Top 5% |
| Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists | 0.42 | Top 5% |
| Successful Take-Ons | 1.54 | Top 5% |
| Assists | 0.22 | Top 5% |
| Total Shots | 1.83 | Top 5% |
FBref highlights his excellence across various metrics, with Kulusevski ranking among the Premier League’s elite midfielders. His progressive carries, touches in the opposition box, and shot-creating actions underscore his influence in driving Tottenham’s attack. These qualities make him the ideal player to unlock Manchester United’s defense and propel Spurs to victory.
Kulusevski has proven himself to be a world-class talent, as talent scout Jacek Kulig aptly described. Whether deployed in midfield or on the wing, his ability to create and finish chances sets him apart. Given his current form and importance to the team, Postecoglou must ensure he starts in tonight’s critical match.
For Tottenham, advancing to the semi-finals is more than just a step closer to a trophy; it represents a chance to solidify the progress made under Postecoglou. With Kulusevski on the pitch, Spurs have a strong chance of overcoming Manchester United and keeping their silverware ambitions alive.