Spurs injury news: Postecoglou provides update on trio and confirms injury boost ahead of Eintracht Frankfurt
Ange Postecoglou provided reassuring updates on several key Tottenham players following their 3-1 victory over already-relegated Southampton, while simultaneously demanding improvement ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarterfinal against Eintracht Frankfurt.
The Spurs manager confirmed defenders Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie were deliberately rested as precautionary measures, with Brazilian forward Richarlison nearing full fitness after his recent injury struggles.
The decision to bench van de Ven and Udogie against Southampton reflected Postecoglou’s cautious approach with two defenders who have endured stop-start seasons due to various fitness issues. “Destiny and Micky are fine,” the Australian clarified.
“They’ve missed considerable football this year, so it made sense to put them on ice today.” This strategic preservation suggests both full-books will feature prominently in Tottenham’s European campaign, with their pace and defensive solidity crucial against Bundesliga opposition.
Richarlison’s imminent return offers Tottenham additional firepower at a critical juncture. Named on the bench against Southampton, the Brazilian striker appears set for first-team involvement after Postecoglou revealed:
“He’ll get another few days of training and no doubt he’ll play a part from now on.” The manager explained his philosophy for reintegrating long-term absentees, emphasizing how matchday involvement helps alleviate “nerves or anxiety” before full returns.
Tottenham’s Injury Comeback Timeline
| Player | Status | Expected Return | Importance to Squad |
|---|---|---|---|
| Micky van de Ven | Rested vs Southampton | Frankfurt (Apr 11) | Defensive pace |
| Destiny Udogie | Rested vs Southampton | Frankfurt (Apr 11) | Attacking fullback |
| Richarlison | Bench vs Southampton | Frankfurt (Apr 11) | Alternative striker |
| Fraser Forster | Long-term absence | Unknown | Backup goalkeeper |
While the Southampton victory ended Tottenham’s four-game Premier League winless streak, Postecoglou refused to gloss over concerning second-half complacency.
Brennan Johnson’s brace and Mathys Tel’s maiden Spurs goal papered over a worrying drop in intensity after halftime, with the manager criticizing his team’s passive defensive approach and sloppy possession play.
“I was really happy with the first half – disciplined, organized, and dangerous going forward,” Postecoglou analyzed. “The second half not so much. We became passive without the ball, allowed Southampton rhythm, and our substitutions didn’t make the intended impact.”
These frank assessments reveal the Australian’s determination to address lingering issues despite the positive result.
With Frankfurt looming, Postecoglou faces delicate balancing acts regarding player fitness and tactical preparation. Van de Ven and Udogie’s preservation suggests they’ll start Thursday’s European clash, while Richarlison could provide valuable attacking options from the bench.
The manager’s willingness to prioritize key players’ long-term availability over short-term gains demonstrates growing pragmatism amid Tottenham’s inconsistent season.
As Spurs prepare for their most significant match since February’s FA Cup exit, Postecoglou’s squad management and halftime tactical adjustments will face renewed scrutiny.
The Southampton victory provided temporary relief, but Thursday’s European test represents the true measure of whether Tottenham’s season can still deliver meaningful success.
With key players returning and the manager demanding higher standards, Spurs have everything to play for in their continental campaign.