Of all the young players Tottenham Hotspur have at their disposal, Alfie Devine is perhaps the most exciting and promising talents.

Devine became Tottenham‘s youngest ever player and goalscorer when he made his debut in the FA Cup win over Marine back in 2021 (Daily Mail). He was just 16 years and 163 days old at the time.

Given he is still only 19-years-old now, it’s not surprising Ange Postecoglou decided to loan Devine out for the season to gain valuable experience. His new home for the campaign is with League One side Port Vale.

He’s enjoying life there, too, especially of late. Just within the last week, Devine has scored two goals to take his tally to three goals and two assists in 14 appearances for Vale (Transfermarkt).

PERTH, AUSTRALIA – JULY 18: Alfie Devine of Hotspur passes the ball during the pre-season friendly match between Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United at Optus Stadium on July 18, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Alfie Devine the hero for Port Vale

His latest effort proved decisive in the Carabao Cup encounter against Mansfield, and his manager, Andy Crosby, is clearly very happy with his loan star.

Speaking to the Port Vale Youtube channel, Crosby said: “It was an outstanding goal from Alfie Devine. A young player who’s been with us a while, is earning the trust for his performances and the way he’s conducting himself.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I’m delighted to see Alfie Devine playing so well for Port Vale and he seems to be becoming something of a talisman for them. If he keeps this up, he will end up starting week in week out, and that is going to hugely benefit his development and be such a boost for Tottenham in the long term, too.

The post ‘Earning the trust’ – Port Vale manager explains how Alfie Devine is doing behind the scenes appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

There were high hopes for Maddison when he joined Spurs this summer in a £40m move from relegated Leicester City. It’s unlikely anyone quite expected the playmaker to settle in so quickly, however.

In the wake of Harry Kane‘s departure this summer, Maddison has instantly stepped up and helped to ease that loss for the club. Taking on the number 10 shirt, the 26-year-old has carried himself with all the verve and confidence you expect from a key figure in the team.

His performances and attacking output speak for themselves. With three goals and five assists to his name already this season (Transfermarkt), Maddison has been a talismanic presence for Spurs as they remain unbeaten and sit at the top of the Premier League.

(Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Maddison was made for Tottenham Hotspur

Maddison already appears to be a perfect fit for Ange Postecoglou‘s system, and was even named as one of his vice-captains. Suffice to say, things are going well for Spurs and Maddison so far.

Speaking to Premier League Productions (29/10/23 at 9:20 pm) about Maddison’s impact, Jermain Defoe was full of praise for the England international.

He said: “Maddison has been, for me, probably the best signing of the season. He is a Tottenham player, if that makes sense. Unbelievable signing. Really, really good.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I know what Defoe means about Maddison just feeling like a Tottenham player. I thought it even when he was breaking through at Norwich and definitely during his time at Leicester, that he just seemed to be the kind of player that we love to have at Spurs, and he’s proving that now. We are very lucky to have him.

The post Jermain Defoe names Spurs star as his signing of the Premier League season appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

With Tottenham flying at the moment, it’s easy to forget that this is a squad which is still in need of reinforcements. Beyond the starting 11, the Lilywhites are a couple of injuries away from a potential disaster.

Ange Postecoglou will be firmly focused on the task at hand, but when the January transfer window opens, there are expected to be some moves made by the Spurs boss.

(Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)

Chiesa may stay at Juventus if talks progress well

One name which has been linked with a switch to North London is that of Federico Chiesa. A report from CalcioMercatoWeb just days ago claimed both Spurs and Newcastle were keen on the Italian, and that his current club could be willing to cash in.

But, the latest report from TEAMtalk suggests quite the opposite, with Chiesa due to hold ” crunch talks” with Juventus before the winter window to discuss his future.

The meeting is set to take place in December, and “insiders are convinced that the formal talks are angled towards Chiesa staying in Italy.”

Whatever happens in that meeting, it is now thought a move in January is “unlikely,” and that any transfer is far more “plausible” for the summer, instead.

Newcastle United are said to be wary of FFP when it comes to their spending, while Spurs are not expected to “spend big” in January. Liverpool, meanwhile, are monitoring Chiesa, but would only swoop if Mo Salah were to leave.

Spurs Web Opinion

Federico Chiesa is an incredible player, and is someone I could see us signing if we finish in the top four this year. I think we would struggle to persuade him to come otherwise, but it’s exciting to consider him in Ange Postecoglou’s system.

The post Report: Spurs and Newcastle may face problem in pursuit of Italian attacker appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Since arriving at Tottenham at the start of 2022, Rodrigo Bentancur has been a revelation in the middle of the park.

His form in the 2022/23 campaign in particular was outstanding, with the Uruguayan star scoring six goals and registering two assists in 26 games (Transfermarkt). However, his season was cut short when he ruptured an ACL in February of this year.

It has been a long road to recovery for the popular midfielder, with fans eagerly awaiting his return. The Lilywhites faithful got what they wanted on Friday night, with Bentancur getting a brief cameo appearance in the win over Crystal Palace.

Ange Postecoglou will be delighted to have a quality midfielder back among his ranks, but perhaps no one is happier than Bentancur himself.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Rodgrigo Bentancur of Tottenham Hotspur applauds fans during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park on October 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Rodrigo Bentancur can’t wait to play again

Speaking to Sport890, Bentancur revealed how eager he was to get going again, and discussed the prospect of returning to play for Uruguay again in the near future, despite only just coming back from injury.

On the injury, Bentancur said: “That [game in] February I had scored a goal, I finished the game, I walked away. When I told the doctor that I felt a crack during the match, he was honest and said it could be the ligament.

“I did not suffer in recovery. The knee reacted very well to all the stimuli and increased loads during the process. They only took fluids from me three times.

“The last two months my subconscious began to win over me because I was already ready to play. [These days] they change the deadlines to avoid relapses, they ask you for almost nine months and they didn’t want me to return until November 21.”

Bentancur has returned almost a month early, and already has one eye on international duty: “I am available and if Bielsa calls me I am at [his] disposal. If it was for me, I was going to play for the national team in September because I’m dying to always be there.”

Spurs Web Opinion

It’s so good to have Bentancur back, and I can’t believe he is back in action already. He looked fairly sharp against Palace on Friday, too, so hopefully the injury hasn’t harmed him too much and we will have the same Lolo firing us to glory again in no time.

The post ‘I am available’ – Bentancur makes worrying statement about being called up by Uruguay appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham are working hard behind the scenes to put a solid structure in place to support new manager Ange Postecoglou, and it certainly seems to be working if results on the pitch are anything to go by.

A key complaint among the Spurs fans over the last decade has been around the way the club recruits new players. For too long, too many big-money signings have failed to live up to expectations, and the squad has suffered as a result.

Now, in the wake of Fabio Paratici’s departure earlier this year, a new hierarchy has been developed at the club. Scott Munn is in as chief football officer, while Johan Lange began work as the new technical director at Spurs today.

(Photo by Aston Villa/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)

Rob Mackenzie will join Spurs next week

It was reported recently that Lange could be reunited with Rob Mackenzie, whom he worked with at Aston Villa (Football Insider).

Clearly, Lange works fast, as Matt Law has today reported that Mackenzie has left his post at Villa and will join Tottenham next week.

Law said: “Rob Mackenzie has left Aston Villa and will join Tottenham as chief scout next week – linking back up with Johan Lange, who has made the same move. Mackenzie has worked at Tottenham before in the past.”

Rob Mackenzie has left Aston Villa and will join Tottenham as chief scout next week – linking back up with Johan Lange, who has made the same move. Mackenzie has worked at Tottenham before in the past #thfc

— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) November 1, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion

It’s very impressive that we have identified someone we want, and within a matter of days have made this happen. The partnership between Mackenzie and Lange should prove to be fruitful for us, and now I just hope they, and Postecoglou, are given the resources to succeed by the club.

The post Report: Tottenham land new chief scout – He will start as early as next week appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Naturally, with attacking talent like Heung-min Son, Richarlison, and Dejan Kulusevski already at the club, and new signings Manor Solomon and Brennan Johnson arriving this summer, there was not quite room for any young forwards at Spurs this season.

As a result, both Troy Parrott and Dane Scarlett were sent out on loan to gain valuable experience and continue their footballing development.

Sadly, the pair are struggling for minutes at their new clubs and have not been given the chance to start a game yet.

Parrott has three goals in seven games, but has played just 112 minutes for the Dutch side (Transfermarkt). Meanwhile, Scarlett has played 125 minutes, but is yet to score in his seven brief appearances for the Tractor Boys (Transfermarkt).

(Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Parrott and Scarlett are both struggling for starts

In his regular loan update for Football.London, Gold commented on the two players and their situations out on loan right now.

Gold details how Parrott is still stuck on the bench for Rotterdam, “despite having notched three goals in his past five Eredivisie matches.”

However, with a cup tie against Den Bosch this week, Parrott “will now be hoping to make his first start” of the season.

For Scarlett, the positive note is that he “continues to get minutes from the bench” for a side who are taking the Championship by storm.

Scarlett has “needed to be patient” but it is known that Ipswich boss, Kieran McKenna, is a “big admirer” of the Spurs youngster, which can only be a good thing for his development.

Spurs Web Opinion

I really hope these two lads start getting more minutes soon, especially Parrott. You get the feeling this could be his last real chance to stake a claim for a regular spot at Spurs, and while he’s scoring goals over in Holland, he really should be in the starting line-up.

The post Troy Parrott and Dane Scarlett are suffering from the same problem at the moment appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The need to strengthen in defence was a top priority for Tottenham over the summer, after a disastrous campaign at the back last year.

For months, it seemed Edmond Tapsoba would be the one to join Ange Postecoglou‘s side, but the North Londoners eventually plumped for Micky van de Ven.

The young Dutchman has done a fine job since arriving at the club, and has formed a brilliant partnership with Cristian Romero. Suffice it to say, very few Spurs fans will be thinking about Tapsoba right now.

LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – MARCH 09: Edmond Tapsoba of Bayer 04 Leverkusen looks on during the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg one match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and Ferencvarosi TC at BayArena on March 9, 2023 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Joachim Bywaletz/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Chelsea want Tapsoba after summer links with Spurs

But, that doesn’t mean the Burkina Faso international is out of the spotlight. Far from it, in fact, as TEAMtalk have now listed Tapsoba among a list of five defensive targets for Chelsea in the upcoming transfer window.

Despite spending big over the last couple of years, Chelsea are still struggling, and it seems the answer to that issue will be to throw more money at the team, specifically, in defence.

The Blues have a shortlist including Sporting Lisbon’s Ousmane Diomande, Benfica’s Antonio Silva, Lille’s Leny Yoro, and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, a player Chelsea sold to the Eagles two years ago.

Also on the list is Tapsoba, and Chelsea are thought to be “sounding out the possibility of a deal” in advance of the January transfer window. It is said the West London side are not deterred by the fact that Tapsoba signed a new contract at Leverkusen recently.

Spurs Web Opinion

With the kind of money Chelsea have spent already, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them go for Tapsoba, even though Leverkusen will be looking for a huge fee to let him go. I’d be more worried if I thought Spurs were still interested, but I believe we have moved on from Tapsoba now.

The post Report: Chelsea have entered the race for Tottenham-linked defender appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham’s defensive troubles last season were clear for all to see. The North London side conceded 63 goals in the Premier League in the 2022/23 campaign, a figure higher than 14 other teams in the division.

The signing of Micky van de Ven appears to have alleviated a lot of those issues now, as does the addition of Guglielmo Vicario in goal.

While the partnership of van de Ven and Cristian Romero looks to be a match made in heaven, there are concerns that an injury to either could be catastrophic, with very little cover waiting in the wings.

(Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Spurs could sign Victor Nelsson in January

If Tottenham are hoping to add to their defensive ranks, a move for Victor Nelsson could well be on the cards. And, according to Turkish outlet Aksam, the player is keen to leave Galatasaray in January.

It was reported earlier this month that Nelsson was unhappy with the club’s decision to block a summer transfer, and the player indicated to the Turkish champions that he would not be extending his contract (Tipsbladet).

Nelsson has not featured for Galatasaray since then, and is now thought to be “preparing to leave” when the transfer window opens in the New Year.

The latest report mentions Tottenham as a potential suitor, and claims the Premier League outfit would be able to bag Nelsson for anywhere between €15-20m (£13-17.4m). His current side are ready to “evaluate offers” in that region.

Spurs Web Opinion

I like Nelsson. He’s a strong, aggressive centre-back who is comfortable with the ball at his feet. He would provide great cover for Romero in particular, and I’d feel a lot more happy to have him stepping in than I would Eric Dier.

The post Report: Spurs-linked defender is now ‘preparing to leave’ in January appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Under Ange Postecoglou, the full-back position has become one of the most important roles in the whole team, with the Australian asking his wide defenders to adapt and invert where necessary.

It’s an approach which has been largely successful with his two first-choice full-backs, Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie.

Beyond them, Emerson Royal has adapted to the role fairly well, too. However, Ben Davies started the recent win over Crystal Palace in place of Udogie, and looked far from comfortable.

With Ryan Sessegnon on his way back from injury, it remains to be seen whether he can provide more sustainable competition for Udogie on the left-hand side, or whether Postecoglou will dip into the transfer market.

(Photo By Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Spurs may look at Cambiaso again

If Spurs do look to sign another player for that role, there’s a chance Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso could be their man. Over the summer, the North London club were linked with the young Italian  (Sky Sport Italia 13/07/23 – via Mondo Napoli).

Now, the rumours are circulating once more, and come courtesy of CalcioMercato. Apparently, Spurs have “set their eyes” on the 23-year-old.

There is “talk of interest” from the Lilywhites, but it remains to be seen whether the Old Lady would let the player go. Nevertheless, it is believed the idea of moving on is “not excluded” by Cambiaso himself, who is keen to play regular football.

Spurs Web Opinion

I would like to be proven wrong, but I can’t see Sessegnon working out under Postecoglou. I think he will fill in until the end of the season whenever needed, but we will look to sign stronger competition for Udogie in the summer. Whether Cambiaso is the right man for the job, however, I’m not convinced.

The post Report: Tottenham have ‘set their eyes’ on signing Juventus defender appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

There has been mass changes made in the Tottenham midfield this season since Ange Postecoglou‘s arrival at the club.

Yves Bissouma is back to his best, and has been partnered in central midfield by Pape Matar Sarr, with Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg slipping down the pecking order.

There is also Rodrigo Bentancur back from injury, and Oliver Skipp fighting for a place in the side, and yet rumours persist that Spurs are looking for new midfielders.

Granted, both Bissouma and Sarr are likely to be absent in the New Year, due to the African Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Hojbjerg is thought to be ready to leave the club in January (Tipsbladet as relayed by Sport Witness).

(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

How can Spurs sign Calhanoglu?

In a new report from InterLive, it is said Spurs “can try” to sign Inter Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu at the end of the season to bolster their midfield – but only on two conditions.

First of all, the Lilywhites would need to qualify for the Champions League in order to persuade the Turkish midfielder to join them.

Additionally, Hojbjerg would need to leave the club before Spurs would “give a serious thought” to signing Calhanoglu.

Apparently, it won’t be simple to get the signing over the line, though, as Inter Milan currently regard Calhanoglu as “indispensable.” It is said any club hoping to lure the player away would need to pay €50m (£43.6m).

Spurs Web Opinion

Calhanoglu is a quality player and would be a step up from Hojbjerg. He would offer something different, too, which it seems Postecoglou wants from his midfielders, which is comfortability in possession and a desire to move the ball forward.

The post Report: Inter Milan star would cost Spurs £43.6m but there are two conditions appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Since arriving at Tottenham this summer, Micky van de Ven has seemingly helped the Lilywhites faithful forget all about the defensive woes of last season.

The young Dutchman has forged an incredible partnership with vice-captain Cristian Romero at the heart of the Spurs defence and has wasted no time in establishing himself in the Premier League.

On Friday, Tottenham had to dig deep to overcome Palace at Selhurst Park. Despite dominating possession, Spurs were never quite home and dry against the Eagles, and had to be particularly vigilant in the dying moments after Jordan Ayew’s controversial goal halved the deficit.

(Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Van de Ven named in Team of the Week again

Ange Postecoglou‘s side held firm and secured all three points, largely thanks to fine defensive work from the backline. That hard work was praised by Garth Crooks, in his latest Team of the Week selection for the BBC.

On van de Ven’s inclusion, Crooks said: “This kid is looking better with every appearance. It’s still early days in his career and there is a long way to go in the title race but Micky van de Ven looks like the real deal. The Netherlands international is quick, comfortable on the ball and likes a goal.

“He didn’t score in the victory at Crystal Palace, but no one was complaining about that. What van de Ven brings to the proceedings is a calm, steadying influence at the back for Spurs and provides Cristian Romero with a defensive partner he can not only rely on but help develop.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I think that final point is very important and interesting. Romero clearly feels a heightened sense of responsibility this season, and not just because of his vice-captaincy, but because he has a peer next to him who is looking to learn from him. What a partnership!

The post Garth Crooks names Spurs defender in Premier League Team of the Week appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham are currently unbeaten in the first ten league games of the season after eight wins and two draws, and sit atop the Premier League table, two points clear of both Arsenal and Manchester City.

Ange Postecoglou‘s impact at the club since arriving this summer cannot be underestimated, with his exciting, attacking brand of football being adopted by the Spurs players almost immediately.

Long gone are the conservative methods of Antonio Conte, with Ange-ball delighting fans and getting the best out of the Tottenham squad, to achieve near-perfect results on the pitch.

(Photo by Roslan RAHMAN / AFP) (Photo by ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Spurs fans love training under Postecoglou

Those results do not come easily, however, and now, Fabrizio Romano has shared what he knows about Postecoglou’s methods behind the scenes, and how the players have reacted.

He said: “From what I’m hearing, [the players] are not just happy with what they’re doing on the pitch on Sunday or during the week. What they’re doing in training was the crucial change, from what I’m hearing, already in the pre-season and then now.

“They enjoy the training sessions, they’re very happy with the high-pressing wanted by Ange Postecoglou. New mentality, new approach, new ideas. The pressing is absolutely crucial for Postecolgou, he’s really pushing.

“[The players] really like the manager’s approach, the manager’s ideas, the new tactical idea. They are very, very happy. Many people didn’t know how good he was, now the numbers speak for him. But training sessions are always crucial to understand how good a manager is.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Happy players are successful players, and that’s being proven every week by the Spurs lads. I think it’s pretty easy to get people to buy into your ideologies when it’s as fun as this, and getting the positive results so soon obviously helps get people on side too.

The post Fabrizio Romano shares what he has heard about Spurs training under Postecoglou appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The Tottenham hierarchy has been going through a lot of changes of late, spearheaded by the appointment of Ange Postecoglou as manager during the summer.

The success the Australian has enjoyed so far, with an unbeaten start to the Premier League campaign taking the club to the top of the table, has stolen most of the headlines right now.

But, behind the scenes, there are plenty of other new faces taking the club in a positive direction. Since the departure of Fabio Paratici earlier this year, Spurs have needed executives to fill the void.

Scott Munn came in as Tottenham’s new chief football officer last month, while Johan Lange is set to take over as the club’s technical director this week after leaving his role at Aston Villa.

(Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)

Spurs want Rob Mackenzie (again)

Now, according to sources at Football Insider, the Lilywhites are once again looking at Aston Villa to supplement their recruitment roster.

Rob Mackenzie supported Lange at Villa as the Midlands club’s recruitment chief, and is now being headhunted by Tottenham. Mackenzie actually worked for Spurs previously, in an 18-month spell between 2015 and 2016.

But now, Tottenham are keen to bring him back and hope that reuniting Mackenzie with Lange will provide the same kind of success Villa have enjoyed in the transfer market since the former joined the club.

Spurs Web Opinion

Sure, Villa have made a few dodgy signings in the last couple of years, but on the whole, they recruit really well and that’s why they are flying right now. If we can get Mackenzie and Lange back together, then it makes a lot of sense to do so.

The post Report: Tottenham are in advanced talks to bring Aston Villa man to N17 appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

It’s hard to pick the most impressive part of Ange Postecoglou‘s team right now, but if we had to choose just one, the midfield has to be considered the most successful area at present.

The central midfield pairing of Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma has been a revelation for Spurs, helping Postecoglou’s side to dominate games in possession. Meanwhile, James Maddison has arguably been the signing of the season.

The 26-year-old has had a huge impact since joining from Leicester City in the summer, and has three goals and five assists to his name already this term (Transfermarkt).

Aside from his attacking output, Maddison has proven himself to be a huge influence on the team in many other ways, and has relished his role as one of Postecoglou’s vice-captains.

(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Will Maddison be Spurs captain one day?

Speaking to Kick Game, Bissouma was full of praise for Maddison, and predicted the England international might be the captain of Tottenham Hotspur one day.

He said: “He’s a good guy, he’s really good. [He’s always] trying to know what’s happening and trying to check on everyone. I think he can be a good captain in the future as well, but as a player I love him.

Bissouma hasn’t always enjoyed Maddison’s performances though, but only because he had to play against him.

“Do you know what? When I was at Brighton there was only two players making me crazy when I was playing against [them],” Bissouma added. “First one was Madders, second was [Jack] Grealish. Now I’m playing with Madders, I’m so happy to have him on my team.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Maddison will make a great captain one day, and I’ve no doubt that he will succeed Sonny when the time comes. He seems like the perfect captain, in that he leads by example but also has such a strong personality and isn’t afraid to step up and speak for his team, too.

The post Yves Bissouma thinks one Spurs teammate could become captain one day appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham have enjoyed an incredible start to life with new manager, Ange Postecoglou, since he took over in the summer.

With attacking football back on the menu, players firing on all cylinders, and results going Tottenham‘s way, the Lilywhites are right in the mix at the top of the Premier League table after ten matches.

Of course, it’s early days, and to sustain any kind of title challenge over 38 games is a huge ask for any team. You only have to look at Arsenal’s capitulation last season to see that.

Manchester City, the reigning champions, will always be the team to beat, but Pep Guardiola’s men have already lost two games this season in an uncharacteristic start to the campaign.

Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images

Defoe says Spurs can win the Premier League title

Speaking to Sky Sports about his former club’s chances of being involved come the end of the season, Jermain Defoe was in a defiant mood and claimed Spurs players should be feeling confident right now.

When asked about Spurs’ hopes, Defoe said: “Why not? Internally, of course, you have to stay humble. I know it sounds boring but you have to take each game as it comes, never look too far ahead.

“Deep down, even though there’s a lot of football to be played, if I was in that dressing room I’d think ‘OK we’re playing well’ and I think you have to think like that as players. If you don’t think like that you’re probably in the wrong business.

“But at the same time, I don’t think the manager will be sending that message and I don’t think the players will be expecting to win the league. You’ve got City… you look at Liverpool’s firepower… it’s important to take each game as it comes and make sure those performances don’t drop off. The manager will make sure of that.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I maintain that a top-four finish would be an unbelievable success for us so early in Postecoglou’s tenure. So much has changed, not just players but the style of play too, and it will take time for us to truly build a sustainable title challenge.

The post ‘Why not?’ – Jermain Defoe comments on Tottenham’s title hopes this season appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

During his time with Arsenal, Massey oversaw the progression of the likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe from the academy through to the first team. Admittedly, the Gunners have a pretty prolific pipeline for young talent.

It’s one of the key reasons they are so strong right now, with homegrown talent combined with big-money signings to help Arsenal compete at the top of the Premier League.

Famously, one player Arsenal let go at a young age is Harry Kane. Luckily, he joined Tottenham shortly after, and the rest is history.

Kane went on to become Spurs’ all-time leading goalscorer this year, before leaving the club for Bayern Munich in the summer.

(Photo by Visionhaus)

Why did Arsenal let Harry Kane go?

Speaking to Tribal Football, Massey revealed his thinking behind releasing Kane as a youngster, and discussed how it felt to watch him succeed at Spurs.

He said: “Every time he scored a goal for Tottenham and now for England, I do scratch my head a little bit over what might have happened if he’d have stayed at Arsenal.

“Years ago, before the youth academy at Arsenal started in 1998, you would be looking at lads aged 14 and 15 years of age when they were going through puberty. Academy football came in and then you’re looking at eight-year-olds and how can you tell what an eight-year-old is going to be like by the time he gets to 19 or 20?”

On Kane, he added: “There were several lads in that sort of situation, but of course Harry Kane was exceptional. He was a very quiet lad and probably didn’t have the physical attributes that we thought was needed.

“Obviously, that’s been turned on its head and Harry Kane is one perfect example who proved that at 11 or 12 years of age, he didn’t have the physical qualities, but he gained them as he went through puberty.

“I do remember he was a lovely lad. He was so keen and enthusiastic about his game. And looking back, he had a very good touch on the ball… But… at Arsenal, there were much quicker, stronger lads with bigger personalities. Perhaps he was overshadowed a little bit.”

Contemplating what could have been, Massey suggests things might never have worked out for Kane at Arsenal anyway: “If he’d come in and signed for Arsenal at 16 or 17 in those days, he’d have been competing with Thierry Henry to get in the first team at Arsenal… And maybe he might not have had the chance to continue his career at Arsenal.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I currently coach a bunch of six-year-olds, and the idea of determining which of them could make it as a Premier League player in 15 years time is insane to me.

Mistakes like letting Harry Kane go are always going to happen, as you just cannot predict how a player will develop. Luckily, it all worked out for Spurs in this instance.

The post ‘I do remember’ – Arsenal academy chief opens up on releasing Harry Kane appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

In two spells with the club, Jermain Defoe saw plenty of top-class players come and go. He wasn’t too bad himself, either, scoring 140 goals in 361 appearances for the Lilywhites (Transfermarkt).

Having shared a field with the likes of Gareth Bale, Luka Modric, and Ledley King, it would probably be pretty easy to guess who Defoe would pick as his most skilful, most intelligent, and most reliable teammates.

However, behind the scenes, players can be very different to their on-field persona. The idea that Danny Rose would be the most angry player Defoe ever came across then, is something of a surprise.

Rose joined Spurs in 2007, and made 213 appearances for the North London club (Transfermarkt) before being released on a free transfer in 2021.

(Photo by James Chance/Getty Images)

Danny Rose was an angry player, says Defoe

Speaking to the former Watford striker, Troy Deeney, for BBC Radio 5 Live’s The Players Channel (via Facebook), Defoe was asked to name his angriest teammate.

He said: “Danny Rose was angry.” Deeney replied: “Yeah I played with him a bit.”

Defoe then added: “Benoit Assou-Ekotto. Remember Benoit? Angry!” Deeney seemed shocked by that one, adding: “He always seemed chilled though?” Defoe simply replied: “Angry.”

Unfortunately, he offered very little explanation for his answers beyond describing the pair as angry. Maybe it’s just something in the blood of left-backs.

Spurs Web Opinion

After seeing Danny Rose confront Jose Mourinho in the Tottenham documentary, I can see why he would be considered an angry man. He was fairly calm in that discussion, but you could see how riled up he was. 

Assou-Ekotto is a surprising one though, as he famously didn’t even particularly like football, so you wouldn’t think he would care enough to get angry.

The post Jermain Defoe names the two ‘angriest’ teammates he played with at Spurs appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham had to dig deep and find new ways to win the game tonight at Selhurst Park, as a well-structured Crystal Palace side made life difficult for Ange Postecoglou‘s men.

While Spurs dominated possession as usual, the expansive and free-flowing football we have come to expect was restricted by Palace. The away side were actually limited to their fewest shots in a game this season, which tells you all you need to know about Palace’s game plan.

The breakthrough for Tottenham came fairly early in the second half, after James Maddison drilled a dangerous ball into the box for Joel Ward to divert into his own net.

Heung-min Son then bagged his eighth goal of the season (Transfermarkt) and it was Maddison once again who helped create the opportunity, with Brennan Johnson providing the assist after fine footwork from the Spurs number 10.

Tottenham had to batten down the hatches late on after Jordan Ayew pulled one back for Palace, but it’s another three points for Spurs and the North London side go into the weekend five points clear at the top of the league.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Italian goalkeeper #13 Guglielmo Vicario shouts at teammates during the English Premier League football match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park in south London on October 27, 2023. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Spurs grind out a win against Crystal Palace

Commenting on the result and the performance, Guglielmo Vicario explained how Spurs managed to secure the win.

He told Sky Sports (27/10/23 at 10:30 pm): “Yeah I think we have to be happy for tonight because it was a tough game. We saw in the first half they play compact so we can’t find the right line to pass the press. But we maintain focus and in the second half we show what we can do.

“But maybe [we need] to stay a bit more concentrated in the last minutes. We have to stay focused for 100 minutes because just a little [lapse] can compromise a big win. We can enjoy this weekend and prepare for the next match.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I think we showed great resilience to find the breakthrough, and once we got going we probably should have killed the game with a third goal. We were unlucky to see the clean sheet go, but three points is three points, and it’s a fantastic start to the weekend.

The post Guglielmo Vicario explains what Spurs need to work on despite Palace win appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Tottenham came out on top tonight in a tough battle at Selhurst Park, with Crystal Palace making Ange Postecoglou‘s men work for the three points.

A goalless first half saw Spurs dominate possession but fail to trouble the Palace goal, while the home side had a couple of good chances to sneak the lead.

The Lilywhites stepped up in the second half however, with James Maddison forcing an own goal from Palace skipper Joel Ward to break the deadlock.

A fine move by the away side was started by Pape Sarr, before Brennan Johnson and Maddison combined to assist their captain, Heung-Min Son to double Spurs’ advantage.

Tensions rose late on as Jordan Ayew converted to bring the home team back into it, but Spurs clung on and took all three points to extend their lead at the top of the league.

(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Was Ayew guilty of handball vs Tottenham?

Ayew may feel a little fortunate to have even got the goal, after VAR conducted a lengthy review into whether he committed a handball in the build-up. Speaking to BBC Match of the Day after the win, Postecoglou had very little to say on the matter.

He said: “I am not going to talk about handball. I have no idea what a handball is.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Luckily, the goal didn’t lead to anything more than a very nerve-wracking final few minutes in this game. Personally, I do think Ayew’s hand brought the ball down and helped him line up his finish, but at the end of the day, he shouldn’t have even got the opportunity at all. Pedro Porro got caught out massively at the back, and he really needs to work on that aspect of his game.

The post ‘I have no idea’ – Postecoglou discusses controversial Crystal Palace goal appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

It wasn’t easy, but Tottenham will go into the weekend with a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table after defeating Crystal Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park.

Ange Postecoglou‘s side dominated possession throughout, but were unable to turn that control of the ball into clear-cut chances in the same manner as they have so far this season.

The high press which has become a Spurs trademark was to thank for the first goal, as James Maddison pressured the Palace defenders into mistakes that ultimately led to a Joel Ward own goal.

Maddison then joined forces with Brennan Johnson, who came on as a substitute, with the pair weaving through the Palace back line to set up Heung-min Son for yet another goal for the Tottenham captain.

A late goal from Jordan Ayew piled on the pressure in injury time, but Spurs were able to hold on and grab all three points tonight.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates with teammate Emerson (L) and Brennan Johnson of Tottenham Hotspur after scoring the team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park on October 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Ange happy with his Tottenham subs vs Palace

While Brennan Johnson arguably had the biggest impact of all the players to come off the bench tonight, Postecoglou has also recognised Emerson Royal and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s influence on the game, with the pair replacing Ben Davies and Yves Bissouma, respectively.

In his post-match press conference (via Football.London), Postecoglou said: “Brennan was great. He’s had to be patient as he’s had a couple of setbacks obviously so we haven’t really seen him in any consistent game time or training time but the last couple of weeks he’s worked hard at training.

“I thought all the subs who came on… I thought Pierre helped us get control of midfield, I thought Emerson at left-back was outstanding. Those kinds of things are helping us at the moment, the guys coming on and helping us see out games.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Brennan Johnson should be delighted with his performance today. I thought he came on and really wanted to make things happen, and his hard work paid off with an assist.

Emerson was brilliant in a position he doesn’t normally play, and put in a really good shift. And Hojbjerg was his usual, sturdy self, and is proving to be a player we can really depend on to manage the game.

The post Ange Postecoglou praises three Spurs players after win over Crystal Palace appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.