Postecoglou says ‘hungry’ Tottenham star is finally fit enough to contribute
After enduring three frustrating years plagued by injuries and inconsistency, Richarlison appears finally ready to deliver on his £60 million price tag at the most critical juncture of Tottenham’s season.
Ange Postecoglou’s recent comments reveal a striker reborn – physically sharp, mentally hungry, and poised to become the unexpected wildcard in Spurs’ pursuit of European glory.
The Brazilian’s Tottenham career has been a story of unfulfilled promise since his 2022 move from Everton. Persistent fitness issues have prevented him from establishing rhythm, with various knee, groin, and muscle problems limiting him to just 24 Premier League starts across three campaigns.
Yet his recent return to full fitness coincides perfectly with Tottenham’s push for Europa League silverware, offering Richarlison a golden opportunity to rewrite his underwhelming narrative in North London.
Postecoglou’s handling of the 27-year-old demonstrates both pragmatism and faith. Despite starting Richarlison in the first leg against Bodo/Glimt – where his relentless pressing and intelligent movement caused constant problems – the Australian deliberately substituted him early, preserving his energies for the challenges ahead.
“He probably could have played another 10-15 minutes,” Postecoglou admitted, “but he’s in great physical condition now and is going to be important for us.” This careful management suggests Richarlison could be Tottenham’s not-so-secret weapon during the season’s climax.
What makes Richarlison’s resurgence particularly intriguing is the context of his likely summer departure. With Tottenham expected to overhaul their attacking options, the former Watford man appears determined to leave on a high.
His training ground intensity has visibly increased, with teammates reportedly impressed by his renewed focus. This professional response, despite the swirling exit rumors, speaks volumes about his character.
Postecoglou highlighted this mentality: “Whatever Richy has to give, he’ll give it every time, whether it’s five minutes or 90 minutes.” Such commitment could prove invaluable in tight European fixtures where marginal moments decide outcomes.
The Australian manager also referenced Richarlison’s impactful spells last season before injuries intervened, suggesting the quality has always been present beneath the surface.
Tactically, Richarlison offers Postecoglou something different. Unlike Heung-min Son’s elusive movement or Brennan Johnson’s raw pace, the Brazilian combines tenacious defensive work with clever link-up play and aerial threat.
His versatility to operate across the frontline provides crucial flexibility, while his big-game experience – including 48 international caps – could prove decisive in high-pressure situations.
The coming weeks represent more than just team objectives for Richarlison – they’re a personal redemption arc. “It would be great for him because he’s been through a tough few years,” Postecoglou acknowledged.
“But that’s the beauty of football…if you keep turning up and doing the right things, sometimes it goes your way.” This philosophical outlook encapsulates Richarlison’s current predicament – a player who has endured setbacks but now stands one purple patch away from transforming his Tottenham legacy.
As Spurs prepare for their second leg against Bodo/Glimt and potential European final, Richarlison’s story serves as a reminder of football’s capacity for reinvention.
Whether as a starter or impact substitute, his physical readiness and renewed hunger make him an X-factor that could tilt tight matches in Tottenham’s favor.
For a player whose Spurs career has promised much but delivered little, the next month offers a chance to create the iconic moments that have so far eluded him – and perhaps convince the club hierarchy that his long-awaited breakthrough has arrived just when needed most.