Spurs have a few long-term absentees at the moment, with Ryan Sessegnon, Manor Solomon and Ivan Perisic not available for selection, while Rodrigo Bentancur is still being eased into training. 

Postecoglou has not been shy of handing opportunities to youngsters, with Alejo Veliz coming on as a substitute on three occasions this season.

LEYLAND, ENGLAND – APRIL 15: Jamie Donley of Tottenham Hotspur smiles as they warm up prior to the Premier League 2 match between Blackburn Rovers and Tottenham Hotspur at Leyland County Ground on April 15, 2023 in Leyland, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

The future looks bright for Tottenham Hotspur

Dorrington and Donley might soon be hoping to force themselves into the first-team picture, with both players training with the senior squad.

Donley has been in outstanding form for the Under-21s so far this season, with the versatile attacker having five goals and seven assists in six matches so far (Transfrmarkt).

Dorrington has also been a rock at the back for the Under-21s, with Football Transfers even suggesting last week that Postecoglou is willing to promote the 18-year-old to the first team in case Eric Dier leaves in January.

Spurs Web Opinion

Neither Donley nor Dorringham are likely to get a place in the matchday squad anytime soon, with Alejo Veliz and Ashley Phillips being ahead of them in the pecking order respectively. However, it is clear that the two academy teenagers have caught the eye of Postecoglou and his coaching staff.

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Dier, whose contract at Spurs runs out next summer, has not played a single minute of football so far this season and has been linked with a move away from the club in January.

It was reported by The Times two weeks ago that Sporting Lisbon could try to re-sign the 29-year-old while various publications over the last week have backed Tottenham to enter the market for a centre-back in January (GiveMeSport).

(Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Dorrington to be promoted to Tottenham first team

Football Transfers have now also claimed that Postecoglou wants to bolster his options in defence when the transfer window reopens.

However, since deals for the likes of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba could prove ‘complicated’ mid-season, it is said that the Australian is ready to promote Dorrington.

The report adds that the 18-year-old, who is comfortable in possession, is seen as a ‘star in the making at Spurs’, with Postecoglou and his coaching staff viewing him as the ‘leading candidate’ from the academy to make the step up to the senior squad.

Spurs Web Opinion

We have seen Ashley Phillips named on the bench ahead of Dorrington on a couple of occasions this season, which is clear evidence that the former Blackburn man is ahead in the pecking order.

There is also no little to no doubt that Tottenham would sign at least one centre-back in January, irrespective of whether Dier leaves or not. 

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A number of new signings including Guglielmo Vicario, Micky van de Ven and James Maddison have all hit the ground running as part of the overhaul of the squad which stagnated under Antonio Conte.

While Conte was reluctant to give younger players the opportunity a stake a claim for a place in his side, Postecoglou has given Pape Matar Sarr a regular place in his team while summer recruit Alejo Veliz has recently also got a few minutes under his belt.

(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Is Alfie Dorrington Tottenham’s next big talent?

Tottenham’s academy sides have also had impressive starts to the respective campaigns and one of the next players to come off the conveyor belt could potentially be Alfie Dorrington.

The 18-year-old central defender has come through the ranks and is training with the first-team squad, with the Enfield-born product reportedly standing out in the sessions, according to journalist Paul Brown.

He told GiveMeSport: “There is Alfie Dorrington as well, who apparently is also standing out and Postecoglou has namedropped him a couple of times.

“So I think all these guys will get chances. And it’s really encouraging if you’re a Spurs fan to see that happen, because I think the club’s made a lot of signings in recent years for managers like Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho, because they wanted older, more experienced players who could come straight into the team and do something for them now, and this feels like a bit of a reset.

“I think it shows long-term vision, long-term thinking, and I think Spurs’ future is secure in this guy’s hands and that their youngsters are going to take big strides over the next few months with this manager.”

SpursWeb Opinion

Dorrington looks to have reacted in the best possible way to the natural disappointment of Spurs bringing in Ashley Phillips from Blackburn Rovers which would have pushed him slightly down in the future pecking order in North London.

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Tottenham go into the international break at the top of the Premier League table after an incredible start to the season under Ange Postecoglou.

The Spurs boss has bid farewell to a large portion of his squad for the next couple of weeks, as various players head out to join up with their national squads.

There are Euro 2024 qualifiers, friendly matches, youth squad action, and even some World Cup 2026 qualifiers on the way in the coming days.

On Wednesday, Ben Davies captained Wales to a 4-0 win over Gibraltar at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground. The Spurs defender even opened the scoring on the night, nodding home from three yards out.

Meanwhile, Tottenham youngsters Luca Gunter and Ashley Phillips played the full 90 minutes as England U19s drew 0-0 with Montenegro. Alfie Dorrington was an unused substitute for the game, while Jamie Donley didn’t make the matchday squad.

Fellow youngster, Will Andiyapan, was in action for Wales U19s, playing the full 90 minutes in another 0-0 draw, against Austria.

SOLNA, SWEDEN – MARCH 24: Dejan Kulusevski of Sweden during the UEFA EURO 2024 qualifying round group A match between Sweden and Belgium at Friends Arena on March 24, 2023 in Solna, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)

When do Spurs players have international games?

Here are the upcoming international games for the Tottenham Hotspur players.

Heung-min Son: South Korea vs Tunisia (friendly) October 13 at 12pm, South Korea vs Vietnam (friendly) October 17 at 12pm

James Maddison: England vs Australia (friendly) October 13 at 7:45pm, England vs Italy (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 17 at 7:45pm

Dejan Kulusevski: Sweden vs Moldova (friendly) October 12 at 6pm, Belgium vs Sweden (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 16 at 7:45pm

Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero: Argentina vs Paraguay (World Cup 2026 qualifier) October 13 at 12am, Peru vs Argentina (World Cup 2026 qualifier) October 18 at 3am

Micky van de Ven: Netherlands vs France (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 13 at 7:45pm, Greece vs Netherlands (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 16 at 7:45pm

Destiny Udogie and Guglielmo Vicario: Italy vs Malta (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 14 at 7:45pm, England vs Italy (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 17 at 7:45pm

Yves Bissouma: Mali vs Saudi Arabia (friendly) October 17 at 4pm

Pape Matar Sarr: Senegal vs Cameroon (friendly) October 16 at 7:30pm

Richarlison: Brazil vs Venezuela (World Cup 2026 qualifier) October 13 at 1:30am, Uruguay vs Brazil (World Cup 2026 qualifier) October 18 at 1am

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg: Denmark vs Kazakhstan (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 14 at 7:45pm, San Marino vs Denmark (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 17 at 7:45pm

Ben Davies and Joe Rodon: Wales vs Croatia (Euro 2024 qualifier) October 15 at 7:45pm

Dane Scarlett: England U21s vs Serbia U21s (Euro qualifier) October 12 at 7:45pm, Slovakia U21s vs England U21s (Euro qualifier) October 16 at 5:30pm

Alfie Devine: Romania U20s vs England U20s (Euro Lite) October 12 at 5pm, England U20s vs Portugal U20s (Euro Lite) October 17 at 7pm

Alfie Dorrington, Ashley Phillips, Jamie Donley, and Luca Gunter: England U19s vs Wales U19s (Euro qualifier) October 14 at 2pm, England U19s vs Austria U19s (Euro qualifier) October 17 at 5pm

Will Andiyapan: Wales U19s vs England U19s (Euro qualifier) October 14 at 2pm, Montenegro U19s vs Wales U19s (Euro qualifier) October 17 at 5pm

Josh Keeley: Latvia U21s vs Republic of Ireland U21s (Euro qualifier) October 13 at 1pm

Mikey Moore and Callum Olusesi: England U17s vs Norway U17s (friendly) October 13 at 12pm

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The Tottenham Hotspur squad is full of talented players right now, and they are flying high at present. Ange Postecoglou remains unbeaten in the league since taking over at the club.

While the current crop of players may be doing their bit to try and get the club on the path to success, that doesn’t mean there isn’t one eye on the future at Spurs.

Currently, two of the hottest prospects at the club are out on loan. Dane Scarlett is trying his best to break into the first team at Championship pacesetters, Ipswich Town, while Alfie Devine is a division lower, with Port Vale.

Meanwhile, still at the club, two youngsters are starting to catch the eye of the first-team boss.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – MAY 07: Jamie Donley of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League 2 match between Tottenham Hotspur U21 and West Ham United U21 at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on May 07, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)

Postecoglou likes Dorrington and Donley

Speaking to the press (via Football.London), Postecoglou was asked about the progress of both Alfie Dorrington and Jamie Donley. 

He said: “With the young guys like Jamie, he’s been doing really well with the U21s consistently. Jamie and Alfie Dorrington have really stood out and that’s why they’ve been training with us. 

“They’ve got to keep working and it doesn’t mean they’re ahead in the pecking order of people like Alfie Devine and Dane Scarlett who are out on loan. I’ve been really pleased with Jamie and Alfie though, they’ve been working well.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I am really excited about the young talent we have at the club right now, mainly because it feels like Postecoglou will actually give them an opportunity in the first team.

I would be very surprised if we don’t see the likes of Donley and Dorrington called up for some game time at some point this season.

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In the past, Tottenham have developed fantastic stars through their academy such as Ledley King and Harry Kane. In the first-team squad right now, Oliver Skipp is a fine example of that pipeline, too.

At present, the Spurs first team are performing brilliantly, and remain unbeaten in the league under Ange Postecoglou. Suffice to say, the Australian is pretty happy with his players.

However, the squad does appear to be worryingly thin in the centre of defence, and an injury to either Micky van de Ven or Cristian Romero could be incredibly harmful given the lack of cover.

Luckily, Spurs have a couple of top talents in their youth squad who could well make the step up this year if needed.

TELFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 15: Alfie Dorrington of Tottenham Hotspur U21 runs past Nathan Fraser of Wolves during Premier League 2 match between Wolverhampton Wanderers U21 AND Tottenham Hotspur U21 at New Bucks Head Stadium on October 15, 2022 in Telford, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Is Alfie Dorrington ready for the first team?

Both Ashley Phillips and Alfie Dorrington have formed a solid partnership in a short space of time, and the latter is the subject of high praise in a recent report from Football.London.

Apparently, there is “a lot of belief” among the coaching staff at Spurs that Dorrington can go all the way to the top with the Lilywhites and he was expected to be “pushing for a first-team squad role” under Postecoglou.

The acquisition of his teammate, Phillips, however, has seemingly become something of a “roadblock” for Dorrington in his path to the first team. While the pair are playing well together, it is thought Phillips’ relative experience may give him the edge.

Despite Phillips making it onto the substitute bench for the first team recently, Dorrington has “only continued to improve” and is now “one of the stars” in the U21 side.

With Dorrington having “such a high ceiling” and Tottenham looking low on numbers in the centre of defence, there is a belief that the 18-year-old could “suddenly be elevated” into the first-team squad, too.

Spurs Web Opinion

We are in a very fortunate position to have not one, but two exciting young centre-backs fighting to join the first-team squad. I do not believe it has to be a competition between the two though, and there could well be opportunities for both Dorrington and Phillips to break into Postecoglou’s plans. 

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Ange Postecoglou has already shown that he is willing to trust young players, with Pape Matar Sarr and Destiny Udogie being regulars in his starting eleven while 18-year-old summer signing, Ashley Phillips, was named on the bench for the clash away at Burnley.

Gold has now come up with a list of six players who could potentially catch Postecoglou’s eye over the course of this season.

(Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

Who are the top talents in Tottenham’s academy?

The journalist begins the list with Jamie Donley, revealing that the reason Spurs decided to offer a four-year deal rather than the usual three-year contract to the forward is that they expect big things from him.

Gold also names two more strikers on his list, Jude Soonsup-Bell and Will Lankshear, who were both signed last summer.

Unsurprisingly, he also includes 18-year-old centre-back Alfie Dorrington, revealing that the teenager has already been involved in first-team training under Postecoglou.

Gold remarks that midfielder Yago Santiago also looks set to have a breakthrough season and rounds off his list with two 16-year-old starlets, Mikey Moore and Callum Olusesi.

Spurs Web Opinion

Tottenham made some smart moves by tying several of these youngsters to new contracts in the summer. Perhaps Postecoglou’s appointment helped the club convince some of these players to stay as the pathway to the first-team at Spurs is now much more realistic.

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With Davinson Sanchez departing to Galatasaray last week, Tottenham are short of options in central defence, with Eric Dier being the only senior centre-back that Postecoglou could turn to in case one of Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero gets injured or suspended.

TELFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 15: Alfie Dorrington of Tottenham Hotspur U21 runs past Nathan Fraser of Wolves during Premier League 2 match between Wolverhampton Wanderers U21 AND Tottenham Hotspur U21 at New Bucks Head Stadium on October 15, 2022 in Telford, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

There is also the risky option of offering a debut to 18-year-old summer signing, Ashley Phillips, who the Spurs head coach named on the bench ahead of Dier for the club’s trip to Turf Moor last week.

It has been widely reported over the past couple of weeks that Postecoglou has liked what he has seen from Phillips in training (Michael Bridge), which perhaps raises the possibility of the youngster being thrown into the deep end.

Postecoglou likes both Phillips and Dorrington

However, Gold has wondered if the teenager can cope with the pressure of having to step into the first-team and also discussed the possibility of Dorrington potentially being handed his debut.

The journalist said on Gold and Guest Talk Tottenham Podcast: “Ashley Phillips, definitely Postecoglou has been impressed with him, but it’s a lot of pressure to put on an 18-year-old. Fans will want to see him play and journalists as well if there’s an injury will be saying he has to play.

“There’s also young Alfie Dorrington as well. Alfie Dorrington is coming up through the ranks very quickly. He’s a very talented and highly regarded player in the academy. He’s been training with the first-team quite a bit and will continue to.”

Spurs Web Opinion

We will certainly be in deep trouble if one of Romero or Van de Ven picks up an injury as it certainly would not be ideal to play either Dorrington or Phillips right now.

If Ange has decided that Dier is not part of his plans (which he seemingly has), I would not be surprised if he plays one of Davies or Emerson at centre-back in case of an emergency.

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Signed from Blackburn Rovers this summer in a £2m deal (BBC), Ashley Phillips was thought to be a player Spurs would develop for the future.

At just 18 years of age, and with just 14 senior appearances to his name (Transfermarkt), certainly no one expected Phillips to be in contention for much first-team football at Tottenham this season.

The player himself actually told the club website that he hopes to be involved with Ange Postecoglou‘s first team this year. And, just as he hoped, Phillips found himself on the bench for the recent win against Burnley in the Premier League.

Postecoglou has previously revealed Phillips will train with the first team ‘week in, week out’ (Football.London) and apparently the young defender has left his manager very impressed so far (Sky Sports).

(Photo by Mick Walker – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Ashley Phillips off the mark for England

With Davinson Sanchez leaving Spurs this summer, there is a chance we could see Phillips take to the field for the first team. And now, the youngster will be heading back to North London after the international break with his goal for the England U19s.

Phillips came off the bench after 63 minutes in the game against Switzerland, and within two minutes, had found the back of the net. A cross into the box fell to Phillips, who rifled home his effort via a deflection to claim his first goal at international level.

Fellow Spurs centre-half, Alfie Dorrington, also featured in the game, having made the starting line-up for the 4-2 win over Switzerland.

Spurs Web Opinion

I can’t wait to see Ashley Phillips given his opportunity with the Spurs first team, and I suspect it will come pretty soon. Eric Dier is clearly not in Postecoglou’s plans, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Phillips was almost above him in the pecking order now.

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One thing was clear going into this summer – Tottenham needed to sign new defenders. A disastrous season at the back last year left the Lilywhites in dire need of defensive reinforcements.

With the signing of Micky van de Ven, Spurs have added a ready-made centre-back to their first team. It is thought Ange Postecoglou is keen to bring in one more player in that position this summer (Football.London).

While repairing the squad for the present has been crucial, it seems Tottenham have also been building for the future, too. The £2m signing (BBC) of Ashley Phillips from Blackburn Rovers earlier this summer sees a player with great promise arriving in North London.

The youngster is expected to remain with the club, for the first half of the season, at least, rather than heading out on loan (Ham & High).

(Photo by Dave Howarth – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Ashley Phillips enjoys playing with Alfie Dorrington

Phillips is one game in to his Spurs career, now, having made his debut for the Under-21s in a 4-1 win over Newcastle United. And, it sounds like the 18-year-old has found the perfect defensive partner in Alfie Dorrington.

Speaking to the club website, Phillips said: “I’ve played with him a couple of times for England so we had that partnership already, but it was really good to join him in a Spurs shirt.

“It’s been really enjoyable. The lads have really been great with me and helped me to settle in, so it’s just about kicking on now.”

Spurs Web Opinion

That centre back pairing of Ashley Phillips and Alfie Dorrington could and should be a big part of our future defence. It will be great to see the two of them playing together this season, and it probably won’t be long before they both get to rub shoulders with the first team.

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STEVENAGE, ENGLAND – APRIL 03: Jamie Donley of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the Premier League 2 match between Tottenham Hotspur U21 v Manchester City U21 at The Lamex Stadium on April 03, 2023 in Stevenage, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

Game 1 – Manchester City

Spurs U21s played their first game of the PL2 season against reigning champions Manchester City. However, it didn’t take long in the game for Spurs to find their rhythm. Just six minutes into the game, Jamie Donely played a pass into Yago Santiago who drove forward, cut inside, and curled a shot into the near post, which beat the Man City keeper. (YouthFootballHighlights).

Spurs’ next opportunity came five minutes later, when Donely’s pressing paid off and he managed to get a foot to a Man City pass. This pass bobbled off Donely’s foot and landed perfectly for Jude Soonsup-Bell. With one quick motion, Soonsup-Bell fired the ball into the roof of the net, and Spurs led 2-0.

Spurs’ aggressive pursuit of goals continued but didn’t come to fruition until moments into the second half. After Nile John was dragged down, Soonsup-Bell swiftly took advantage and delivered a perfect outside-of-the-boot pass to a marauding Damola Ajayi. He then shifted the ball outside, which left the final Man City defender out of the equation, and to top it off, he slid the ball through the keeper’s legs for a nutmeg goal. 

Man City then applied some pressure to the Spurs defence, but Alfie Dorrington and Brooklyn Lyons-Foster were able to make easy work of any Man City attacks, with most of Man City’s efforts nullified before a shot could be registered. Spurs goalie, Josh Keeley, was rarely tested and looked comfortable throughout the game.

Spurs once again were looking to extend their lead, and Santiago would be the one to launch and finish this attack. After a misplaced pass from the Man City midfield, they were backtracking, and Santiago took advantage of that. His pressure on the unaware ball carrier meant he was able to swiftly take possession and drive goalward.

The Man City centre-back was once again chasing back and dove in to tackle Santiago, but he was able to slow his run and watch the defender slide past. Santiago then curled an effort from a tight angle, but it was perfectly placed and beat the Man City keeper.

The final goal would come in the 71st minute when a freekick was given to Spurs. Nile John looked up and saw Rio Kyerematen running a fantastic line down the heart of the Man City defence. The perfectly weighted pass met Kyerematen with only one defender in front of him. However, there was no stopping Kyerematen, who danced his way around the lone defender and slotted it into the back of the net. 

Spurs went on to win the game 5-0 in dominating fashion. Last year, the champions were easily beaten by the slightly older Spurs side, and Spurs sat at the top of the table. The whole team played flawlessly, but Soonsup-Bell and Santiago had outstanding games, and both look to be in fantastic form going into the season.

Game 2 – Newcastle United

Newcastle would be the ones to start the game strong, and their first major chance came in the 11th minute. After a low cross was played into the box, Remi Savage had a shot at Spurs goalkeeper Josh Keeley. Nevertheless, Keeley was able to make a strong save from a dangerous effort, keeping the score level (YouthFootballHighlights).

The next chance would fall to Spurs after a fast pass was fired into the feet of Soonsup-Bell, who clipped it down the line to a full-flight Santiago. This left Santiago with acres of space and the goal in sight. With his lightning-fast feet, he was able to steer clear of any danger and glide past the keeper. Santiago then coolly passed it into the unoccupied goal.

Just minutes later, Alfie Devine cut in from the left and fired a shot goalward, which narrowly missed and whistled past the inside post.

After 25 minutes of play, Spurs got another chance. Dorrington was able to work his way to the byline and deliver a pass to an unmarked Donley. This was fired wide of the target, and it was a chance that should have been claimed, but Spurs would have to keep plugging away to force more chances.

Chances did come, and 10 minutes later, Spurs found themselves with another attempt to score. Santiago had the ball played into him, he then drove inward, allowing Donely to drift outside. He then played a through ball to Donely, who had plenty of running room as the full-back had committed to Santiago. Donely opted for a quick cross to the back post, which found Soonsup-Bell, who clipped it in with an outstretched foot.

There was a scare for Spurs just before the half when Newcastle midfielder Turner Cook curled an effort that just missed the far post. This would be the last effort at goal before the halftime whistle.

Just after halftime, Santiago would continue his rich vein of form, and he took on defenders down the left flank. He was able to move around the full-back as he shifted the ball from his right foot to his left, which then powered a shot past the keeper to put Spurs 3-0 up.

Spurs once again applied more pressure to the Newcastle backline when John played a pass into Soonsup-Bell’s feet. Soonsup-Bell turned and looked to edge it to Donely, but a tackle stopped this. Nevertheless, John was there to reclaim the ball for Spurs, but instead, he opted for a first-time shot, which beat the Newcastle keeper and gave Spurs the lead 4-0.

Newcastle were eager to get back into the game, and they were crafting more and more chances. In the 67th minute, Josh Keeley had to dive full-stretch after a shot was hit cross-goal from far out.

In the 77th minute, Newcastle had a stellar chance after a lofted cross was played in from the byline. A Newcastle player was waiting for this ball to drop to his feet, and he hit it first time at goal. Despite Spurs’ effort to clear the ball, it nestled into the back of the net.

The game finished 4-1, and Spurs once again shined in a high-scoring, thrilling match. They end this weekend at the summit, with North London rivals Arsenal in second place. They face Derby in the next fixture – last season Derby picked up just 1 point in the PL2 division 2. This should be an easier fixture for Spurs considering their two previous results against top-quality opposition.

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As is always the case when a new manager comes into a football club, there is a chance for every single player to make their mark.

Those previously outcast could find a fresh start, while young talents have an opportunity to show they are ready for the next level.

TELFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 15: Alfie Dorrington of Tottenham Hotspur U21 runs past Nathan Fraser of Wolves during Premier League 2 match between Wolverhampton Wanderers U21 AND Tottenham Hotspur U21 at New Bucks Head Stadium on October 15, 2022 in Telford, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Ange Postecoglou‘s arrival at Tottenham has certainly felt like the start of a very positive new era for those associated with the club.

The Australian is using this pre-season tour to assess a variety of players in his squad, and there is expected to be ample opportunities offered to younger players.

As for the season ahead, it remains to be seen which players will survive the summer transfer window and find a place in Postecoglou’s first-team squad for the 2023/24 campaign.

Alfie Dorrington could be given a chance

According to a report from Football.London, it is suggested that Spurs youngster Alfie Dorrington could be one of those players who can make a breakthrough under Postecoglou in the forthcoming season.

The 18-year-old recently signed a new contract with Spurs to keep him at the club until 2026 and, after a series of promising displays for the youth team last term, there are high hopes for Dorrington’s future.

The report states Dorrington is someone who Postecoglou is “expected to look at this season” and could be set to “make the step up” to the senior squad at some point this year.

However, it is thought the potential of arrival of Ashley Phillips could have some impact on Dorrington’s “pathway” to the first team.

If the deal for Phillips is finalised, he is expected to join up with the first team for the remainder of the pre-season tour.

Spurs Web Opinion

It is no bad thing to have two excellent young centre-backs vying for a chance in the first-team at Spurs.

We shouldn’t expect too much from the pair at this stage, but both Dorrington and Phillips should be given some opportunities here or there this season.

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The frustration has come mainly from the lack of cohesion between the academy and the first team. In recent years bridging the gap between the U23s and the first-team squad has never been harder

The 2022/23 season has been a whirlwind for the academy, with two Premier League cups lifted and some potential talents making their mark.

The U18 and U17 academy squads were captained by Luca Gunter, and these age groups excelled, coming 5th in the U18 Premier League South (Premier League), alongside both the U17 and U18 Premier League cups. Both finals were thrilling to watch and displayed all of the talents in these squads.

However, the U23 squad had a disappointing season and they went into the last game needing a win and results elsewhere to favour them staying in the league. Despite Spurs’ win against West Ham, they finished the day in the relegation zone.

This was a crushing blow as it would disrupt the player pathway for all the U18s as they would have to compete in a league of lesser quality at the U23 level.

Nevertheless, it looks like the academy league system is set to change, which means Spurs will not go down. They will adopt a single-tier league system without relegation or promotion (Football.London).

The academy is currently very strong, and there are some talents working their way up the club. Some prospects could make their Premier League debuts under Ange Postecoglou.

Here are some of the future talents that Spurs have climbing the ranks:

Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images

Alfie Devine – 18

Alfie Devine has risen through the ranks at Spurs and is the club’s youngest goalscorer. Earlier in the season, he signed a five-year deal (Tottenham Hotspur). 

Throughout the season, the attacking midfielder has been travelling with the first-team squad but he has only played one minute for them.

However, he has played a crucial role in the U23 squad. In the season gone by, he played 17 games for the U23s, where he scored twice and picked up three assists (Transfermarkt).

Devine has also represented England in the Under-20 World Cup. He started in all of England’s games and played an important role as the No.10 in the squad. In the four games they played, Devine scored twice and assisted England teammate Bashir Humphreys (SofaScore). 

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

Mikey Moore – 15

On June 19, Mikey Moore committed his future to Spurs, meaning the 15-year-old will be at Spurs until 2026 (Fabrizio Romano). Moore is a future star in the making and has already featured for the U18s and the U23s. 

Moore has had a stellar season and has performed fantastically for the youth squads. He has seven goal contributions in 10 games for the U18s in the Premier League South this year (Transfermarkt). This is on top of his outstanding performances for the U16 squad. 

He is comfortable playing in any attacking position but is at his best playing on the left-hand side. He has been a mainstay in the England U16 squad and has scored in 2 of his last 3 games (Livesport)

Despite his age, we will be hearing a lot about Moore’s endeavours in the coming years and hopefully, we will see him making his first team debut in the near future. 

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

Jamie Donley – 18

Jamie Donley has led the line for the academy this year. He has represented the U18s and the U23s throughout the season. Not only did Donley play as a striker, but he has filled numerous positions in an injury-riddled squad.

Donely has been a key figure in the academy’s output this season. For the U18s, he had nine goal contributions in only six games. This impressive return was not necessarily mirrored for the U23s, with five-goal contributions in 21 games (Transfermarkt). However, for many of these, he was forced into alternative positions due to squad injuries.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 26: Will Lankshear of Spurs during the UEFA Youth League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Sporting CP at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on October 26, 2022 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Will Lankshear – 18

Will Lankshear has largely played for the U18 squad; however, he has made appearances for the U21s in the league and in the UEFA Youth League, where he scored against Sporting Lisbon (Transfermarkt).

In the U18 Premier League South, he scored four goals in five games. This impressive goal return was cut short when he injured his knee in February. This injury required surgery, and it has kept him from playing ever since (Football.London).

We will likely see more of Lankshear in the coming season where he will feature regularly for the U21s. He was in great form before his injury and hopefully, he can reach those heights of form again. 

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – MARCH 30: Matthew Craig and Rio Kyerematen of Tottenham Hotspur during the Tottenham Hotspur training session at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on March 30, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Matthew Craig – 20

Matthew Craig has been a regular starter for the U23 and his presence at the base of the midfield has been fantastic. The 20-year-old can play anywhere across the midfield and made his debut on the final day of the season against Leeds. Despite only playing 13 minutes, this was a momentous day for the future star.

Craig has been incredibly important for the U23s this year. He has assisted five goals in the Premier League 2 this year (Transfermarkt). Not only has he contributed with his play but he has also captained the side on numerous occasions

It is looking increasingly more likely that Craig will sign a new deal for Spurs(Alasdair Gold). This will be another important extension for the academy. 

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 08: Oliver Irow of Tottenham Hotspur in action during the U18 Premier League Cup match between Tottenham Hotspur U18 and Wolverhampton Wanderers U18 at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on October 08, 2022 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Oliver Irow – 17

Oliver Irow has enjoyed an incredibly successful second half of the season. Despite having a slow start to the season, Irow has turned a corner and has become one of the most exciting prospects in the academy.

Irow has mainly played on the left side this season; however, he is versatile and can play anywhere in the front three. After a slow start to the season, Irow picked up fantastic form starting in game week 13.

He has scored six goals in the last five games (Transfermarkt) – not only did he achieve in the league but in the cup final he had a remarkable game. 

In the U17 Cup final Irow was spectacular. The front three of Moore, Donley and Irow were deadly and Irow opened the scoring for Spurs despite slipping while taking his shot.

In the second half, Spurs were firing on all cylinders, and Irow then had a chance for his second goal when Donley gave him a 1 v 1 with the keeper. Irow was never going to miss it and he fired near post past the Nottingham Forest Keeper. (Tottenham Hotspur).

TELFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 15: Alfie Dorrington of Tottenham Hotspur U21 runs past Nathan Fraser of Wolves during Premier League 2 match between Wolverhampton Wanderers U21 AND Tottenham Hotspur U21 at New Bucks Head Stadium on October 15, 2022 in Telford, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Alfie Dorrington – 18

Alfie Dorrington has been one of the most senior defenders in the academy this season. He has played across both the U18 and U21 squads and has been selected consistently in both. He made 16 appearances for the U18s in the league, and he played in 10 games in Premier League 2 (Transfermarkt). 

Alfie is not only a dominant centre-back but also a very capable ball carrier, and he has shown this throughout the season. In the U18 Premier Cup final, he was imposing, but his distribution was pinpoint.

Dorrington could be selected to go on the pre-season tour as he is one of the most experienced academy players, and Spurs look likely to have an overhaul in defence.

ALCOCHETE, PORTUGAL – SEPTEMBER 13: Luca Gunter of Tottenham Hotspur FC during the UEFA Youth League match between Sporting CP and Tottenham Hotspur at Academia Cristiano Ronaldo – Sporting CP on September 13, 2022 in Alcochete, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Luca Gunter – 18

Luca Gunter arrived at Spurs at the age of 12. Now 18, he has been a leader for the academy this season. He has captained the U18s and started nearly every game for them.

Luca has not just been an inspiring presence but also a standout player; he has five clean sheets in the league and one in the Uefa Youth League (Transfermarkt). 

Gunter lifted two trophies for the Spurs this season in back-to-back Premier Cup finals. The impressive achievements don’t stop there as Gunter was awarded a contract that lasts until 2025 (Tottenham Hotspur). 

Gunter will likely play for the U21s next season in the new Premier League 2 format. There is no doubt that we will see Gunter on the team sheet for the first team squad in the future.

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In the column, Gold discusses the wholesale changes that are expected to be made in the backline, revealing that Spurs are set to enter the market for multiple central defenders this summer.

GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images

However, the journalist states that apart from potential approaches for big names such as Marc Guehi, Aymeric Laporte or Max Kilman, two youngsters from the academy set-up could also be looked at by the new Tottenham head coach ahead of the new season.

Dorrington and Paskotsi will get chance to impress

He reveals that England youth international Dorrington, who signed a new contract with the club recently, is a ‘leading contender’ to vie for a first-team spot under Postecoglou.

Gold adds that Paskotsi, who made his senior debut for Tottenham in a UEFA Europa Conference League clash against Pacos de Ferreira in 2021, is also expected to be looked at by the Australian.

The Estonia international endured a frustrating, injury-hit 2022-23 campaign, making just a total of just five appearances for the club’s Under-21s (Transfermarkt).

Spurs Web Opinion

It would perhaps be wishful thinking to expect either Paskotsi or Dorrington to make the step up to the first team next season.

If Postecoglou does see potential in Paskotsi, the sensible thing to do would be to loan the 20-year-old to a League One club so that he can get regular first-team minutes under his belt.

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The commanding centre-back has been with Tottenham since the age of 13 and has developed into one of the most promising players to emerge from the club’s academy.

(Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)

Dorrington played a key role in helping Spurs win the U17 and U18 Premier League Cup double last season.

The 18-year-old made 20 appearances for the U18 side but also made the step up to play for the U21 team on 12 occasions, and featured in the UEFA Youth League, too (Transfermarkt).

Dorrington signed his first professional contract with Tottenham Hotspur in April of last year, but has already been rewarded with a new long-term deal.

Alfie Dorrington signs new Tottenham contract

Speaking to SpursPlay about his new contract, Alfie Dorrington said: “It feels really good, especially to commit here long term. It shows the club value me and hopefully I can pay them back in return.

“I’ve always been a Tottenham fan. It’s just been a dream since I’ve been here. It’s all been going in a good direction. It’s all been a really good experience and I feel like I’ve had a lot of exposure this year.”

On his ambitions and next steps, Dorrington added: “I think just keep training hard and hopefully get a chance to establish myself in the U21s. And then hopefully get a chance in the first team.

“It means a lot. All the hard work I’ve put in, all the years of sacrifice for me and my family, and all the coaches pushing me. It’s a really big achievement.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Alfie Dorrington is exactly the kind of player we want to be developing at Tottenham.

He clearly loves the club and has a mature head on his shoulders that has allowed him to step up to the next age group already.

Hopefully, we can see his composure and confidence lead to a first-team opportunity in the near future.

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The central defender turned 17 on Wednesday and has been rewarded with a new deal having gone full-time within the academy ranks as a scholar last summer having originally walked through the doors of the club’s youth system as a thirteen-year-old.

Dorrington follows in the footsteps of fellow defender Charlie Sayers who also signed his first pro deal at the end of last month, following an impressive start to life in north London having joined from Southend United in December.

The England Under-17 international had been spotted in training with Antonio Conte’s first-team along with fellow academy players Max McKnight and Thomas Bloxham ahead of their Premier League clash against Southampton in February (Spurs YouTube).

SpursWeb Opinion

It is great to see Spurs rewarding some of the brightest talents in the academy with the opportunity to turn professional. 

They need to look no further than Oliver Skipp as a source of inspiration for a player who has come through the ranks at a young age to become a vital part of Conte’s plans and has been rightly rewarded with a new deal.

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