As the Europa League final looms large on the horizon, Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has finally been greeted with a glimmer of hope in the form of an injury boost. The Spurs, who emphatically defeated Bodo/Glimt in the semi-finals, are set to face off against Manchester United in Bilbao on May 21. This high-stakes encounter holds the promise of an automatic spot in next season’s Champions League for the victorious side, while the loser will be left to pick up the pieces of a dismal campaign, with both managers under intense scrutiny.
United and Spurs have endured a forgettable year in the Premier League, languishing in 15th and 16th positions respectively. Postecoglou’s standing at the club has taken a significant hit over the course of the season. While he seemed secure in his role a year ago, the Australian now finds himself on the verge of an exit. However, he still has a golden opportunity to claim silverware, as Spurs’ last trophy dates back to 2008.
One of the primary factors contributing to Tottenham’s struggles this season has been their persistent injury problems. Postecoglou has had to navigate through a series of crises across all positions, including goalkeeper, defense, midfield, and attack. The latest setback came with the news that star playmaker James Maddison has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign. Captain Son Heung-min has also been sidelined for the last seven games due to a foot injury.
But with the Europa League final rapidly approaching and a Premier League clash against Crystal Palace on Sunday, there is finally some positive news for Postecoglou. Son is edging closer to a return. “Everyone got through OK the other night,” Postecoglou said on Friday. “I’m half-hopeful that we can get Sonny some minutes tomorrow, so he’ll be the only one who might be able to come back in.”
He raised concerns about artificial pitches, noting, “Thursday’s game on the artificial surface took a toll on players; they were visibly sore. Past experience, like after our Tamworth match, shows such surfaces can lead to injuries. We must tread carefully for Sunday’s game, but next Friday offers different circumstances. We’ll prioritize the Europa League final, making decisions to ensure our squad is in peak condition.”
The Europa League final will be Postecoglou’s 100th game as Spurs manager. He said reaching a European final was a “significant achievement”, despite the challenges faced. “It hasn’t been smooth, but reaching a major final is hugely satisfying. I’m proud of the team. It’d be a fitting end to my 100th game, and I hope we’ll all feel joy at the end.”