Postecoglou reveals Son Heung-min concern after Tottenham draw with Roma

Ange Postecoglou has acknowledged the challenges he faces in managing a thin Tottenham squad, particularly in wide areas, as injuries continue to deplete his options.

The issue became even more apparent during Thursday night’s Europa League clash against Roma, where Spurs were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw after Mats Hummels scored a stoppage-time equalizer.

Despite Son Heung-min opening the scoring, Tottenham couldn’t hold on, leaving them ninth in the Europa League standings. While they remain in a decent position to qualify for the knockout stages, work is still required.

Balancing domestic competitions and European commitments has proven to be a significant task for Postecoglou. With Tottenham competing in the Premier League, Carabao Cup, and Europa League, injuries in key positions have compounded the difficulties.

The absence of players like Richarlison, Mikey Moore, and Wilson Odobert on the wings, as well as Guglielmo Vicario, Micky van de Ven, and Cristian Romero in other areas, has left the squad stretched thin. Postecoglou has had to rely heavily on certain players, particularly Son, while navigating this challenging period.

The Australian manager emphasized the need to manage Son carefully to avoid overburdening him. He noted that Son has endured a disrupted season, which has impacted his form and fitness.

Despite these challenges, Son’s quality remains evident, and he continues to create opportunities and score crucial goals. Postecoglou expressed confidence that Son is regaining full fitness, a vital factor for the team’s success moving forward.

However, with limited options in the wide areas, Postecoglou acknowledged the importance of rotating his remaining wingers, including Brennan Johnson and Timo Werner, to prevent further injuries.

Reflecting on the Roma match, Postecoglou admitted that missed opportunities cost his team the win. Tottenham created numerous chances, hitting the post three times and seeing efforts cleared off the line. He highlighted the need for composure in front of goal, which could have secured the victory.

Despite the frustrating result, Postecoglou remained optimistic about the team’s overall performance, emphasizing their ability to create opportunities even under challenging circumstances.

The manager also addressed the growing fixture congestion as December approaches. Tottenham are set to play nine matches across three competitions, including high-stakes clashes against Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United.

Postecoglou acknowledged the challenges posed by such a demanding schedule, particularly with the squad’s current injury issues. He stressed the importance of adapting to the situation and making the most of the available resources. While the team’s depth has been tested, Postecoglou remained determined to maintain their competitive edge across all competitions.

The injuries have forced Tottenham to rely on young players to fill the bench, underlining the limitations of the squad. Postecoglou noted that the team couldn’t even meet the full bench quota during the Roma match, illustrating the severity of the situation.

Despite these obstacles, he expressed confidence in the team’s resilience and ability to compete. He pointed to their strong position in the Europa League group as evidence of their determination to overcome adversity.

Postecoglou’s approach to managing the squad during this period highlights his pragmatic mindset. He recognizes the importance of balancing player fitness with the demands of a busy schedule.

While injuries have limited his options, Postecoglou remains focused on maximizing the team’s potential. His emphasis on maintaining high standards and fostering a positive environment has been instrumental in keeping the team motivated.

The manager’s ability to adapt to the challenges of the season will be crucial as Tottenham navigate this critical period. The congested fixture list and ongoing injury issues present significant hurdles, but Postecoglou’s leadership and tactical acumen provide a strong foundation for success. The team’s performances have demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level, even when faced with adversity.

Son’s role in the team remains pivotal, and his return to full fitness will be a significant boost for Tottenham. The South Korean captain’s experience and quality make him an indispensable asset, especially during this demanding stretch of the season. Alongside players like Brennan Johnson and Timo Werner, Son will play a vital role in maintaining the team’s attacking threat.

As December unfolds, Tottenham’s ability to manage their resources effectively will determine their success across competitions. The team’s resilience and adaptability will be tested, but Postecoglou’s guidance provides a sense of confidence.

By maintaining their focus and continuing to create opportunities, Tottenham can navigate this challenging period and build on their strong position in the Europa League and domestic competitions.

The journey ahead will undoubtedly present obstacles, but Tottenham’s commitment to playing exciting, attacking football remains unwavering. Postecoglou’s vision and the players’ determination to overcome challenges provide a strong foundation for the team’s ambitions.

As the season progresses, Tottenham will look to capitalize on their strengths and address their weaknesses, aiming to secure success on multiple fronts.