Tottenham get their first positive injury update before Bodo Glimt second leg
As Tottenham Hotspur prepare for their crucial Europa League semifinal second leg against Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt, the North London club finds itself navigating the delicate balance between optimism and caution.
Holding a commanding 3-1 aggregate lead, Spurs appear firmly in control on paper, but football has taught us time and again that nothing can be taken for granted—especially in European competition.
The biggest sigh of relief comes with the news that star striker Dominic Solanke should be available for selection after an injury scare in the first leg.
The English forward, who has been in fine scoring form recently, picked up a minor groin issue during the initial encounter but has since been cleared to feature.
His physical presence and knack for crucial goals make him an invaluable asset as Tottenham look to secure their place in the final.
However, Solanke’s inclusion isn’t guaranteed. With Son Heung-min nearing full fitness after a foot injury sidelined him, manager Ange Postecoglou faces a welcome selection headache.
The South Korean captain’s return would provide a significant boost, offering his trademark pace and clinical finishing. Should Son start, it could see Richarlison—another in-form attacker—shift to a wider role or even lead the line himself.
The Brazilian has been a revelation in recent weeks, rediscovering his scoring touch at just the right moment.
Postecoglou’s tactical flexibility will be tested. In the first leg, he deployed both Solanke and Richarlison from the outset, with the latter operating on the left flank.
This dual-threat approach paid dividends, but with the tie delicately poised, the Australian may opt for a more conservative setup away from home.
While Spurs’ attacking options provide reasons for optimism, their midfield has taken a significant hit. The season-ending injuries to James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall leave a creative void in the center of the park.
Maddison’s absence, in particular, is a bitter pill to swallow—his vision and ability to unlock defenses have been instrumental in Tottenham’s campaign.
Bergvall, though less experienced, offered youthful energy and technical quality, making his loss another setback in an already demanding season.
Despite these challenges, Tottenham remain overwhelming favorites to progress. A 3-1 cushion is a healthy advantage, and Bodo/Glimt, while spirited, lack the pedigree of their Premier League opponents.
Yet, Spurs fans know all too well that complacency can be their undoing. The club’s history is littered with near-misses and unexpected collapses, serving as a cautionary tale against underestimating any opponent.
The potential final against Manchester United looms large, with the Red Devils also holding a comfortable lead in their semifinal tie against Athletic Club.
A clash between two English giants in the Europa League final would be a spectacle, adding extra incentive for Tottenham to finish the job in Norway.
For Solanke, this match represents another opportunity to cement his status as a key figure in Postecoglou’s project. Whether he starts or makes an impact off the bench, his contribution could prove decisive.
The same applies to Richarlison, whose resurgence has been one of the season’s bright spots.
As Thursday night approaches, the message from the Tottenham camp should be clear: respect the opponent, but seize the moment. With a place in the final at stake, there’s no room for half-measures.
The injuries to Maddison and Bergvall are undeniably damaging, but in football, as in life, adversity often reveals a team’s true character.
For Spurs, this is their chance to prove they have the mentality to match their talent. The Europa League trophy is within touching distance—now they must reach out and grab it.