Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is poised to field his strongest defensive lineup in five months as Spurs prepare to face AZ Alkmaar in a crucial Europa League clash.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is poised to field his strongest defensive lineup in five months as Spurs prepare to face AZ Alkmaar in a crucial Europa League clash.

 

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is poised to field his strongest defensive lineup in five months as Spurs prepare to face AZ Alkmaar in a crucial Europa League clash.The return of key defenders Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero from injury significantly bolsters Tottenham’s backline, addressing vulnerabilities that have plagued the team in recent fixtures.

 

Postecoglou confirmed that both van de Ven and Romero are available for selection, stating, “Both available.” This development is timely, as Tottenham aims to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg against AZ Alkmaar.

 

However, the team faces challenges with the absence of Kevin Danso, who suffered a hamstring injury in the previous match. Postecoglou commented on Danso’s condition, noting, “He felt it right at the end of the game… We have to let it settle down before we get clarity on it.” Additionally, forward Richarlison is working on his recovery and is expected to be available post the international break.

The upcoming match is pivotal for Tottenham’s season, especially after recent domestic cup exits and a mid-table Premier League standing. Postecoglou’s previous assertion that he tends to secure trophies in his second season has come under scrutiny, adding pressure to deliver success in the Europa League.

 

Reflecting on the significance of the match, Postecoglou emphasized the need for an improved performance, stating, “It is still very tight… if we can play with the intensity and tempo we played at the weekend, I think we’ll have the opportunity to progress.”

 

The return of van de Ven and Romero offers a defensive solidity that has been lacking, providing a foundation for Tottenham to press forward and potentially secure the two-goal margin needed to advance to the quarterfinals. Achieving this would not only keep their European aspirations alive but also alleviate mounting pressure on Postecoglou and his squad.

 

As the team prepares for this decisive fixture, the focus remains on delivering a performance that aligns with the club’s ambitions and restores confidence among supporters.