Tottenham Hotspur FC | 2024/25 Season

[FearlessRoar]

The 2024–25 season will be the 119th season in the history of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club and their 47th consecutive season in the top flight of English football. In addition to the domestic league, the club will also participate in the FA Cup and the EFL Cup. Having finished 5th in the table the previous season, they also qualified for the UEFA Europa League.

The season will be the first without Eric Dier since 2013–14, after he made a permanent move to German side Bayern Munich following his loan during the 2023–24 season.

Tottenham Hotspurs' fixtures for 2024-25 season​

19/08/2024 Leicester City v Tottenham Hotspur

24/08/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Everton

31/08/2024 Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur

14/09/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal

21/09/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Brentford

28/09/2024 Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur

05/10/2024 Brighton v Tottenham Hotspur

19/10/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United

26/10/2024 Crystal Palace v Tottenham Hotspur

02/11/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Aston Villa

09/11/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Ipswich Town

23/11/2024 15:00 Manchester City v Tottenham Hotspur

30/11/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham

03/12/2024 A.F.C. Bournemouth v Tottenham Hotspur

07/12/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea

14/12/2024 Southampton v Tottenham Hotspur

21/12/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool

26/12/2024 Nottingham Forest v Tottenham Hotspur

29/12/2024 Tottenham Hotspur v Wolverhampton

04/01/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle United

14/01/2025 Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur

18/01/2025 Everton v Tottenham Hotspur

25/01/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Leicester City

01/02/2025 Brentford v Tottenham Hotspur

15/02/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United

22/02/2025 Ipswich Town v Tottenham Hotspur

25/02/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City

08/03/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v A.F.C. Bournemouth

15/03/2025 Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur

02/04/2025 Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur

05/04/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Southampton

12/04/2025 Wolverhampton v Tottenham Hotspur

19/04/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Nottingham Forest

26/04/2025 Liverpool v Tottenham Hotspur

03/05/2025 West Ham United v Tottenham Hotspur

10/05/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Crystal Palace

18/05/2025 Aston Villa v Tottenham Hotspur

25/05/2025 Tottenham Hotspur v Brighton

 

[FearlessRoar]

Tottenham agree deal for South Korean winger Yang​

Tottenham have agreed a deal to sign winger Yang Min-hyuk from Gangwon FC.

The 18-year-old will join Spurs, external in January 2025, in a deal that will run until 2030.

Yang, a South Korea youth international, has scored eight goals in his 25 matches for Gangwon.

In netting his first goal for the club in March, he became the youngest K League scorer since 2013.

Yang will be the third Korean footballer to join Spurs after current captain Son Heung-min and Lee Young-pyo.

Yang Min-hyuk: Tottenham agree deal for teenage South Korean winger

Tottenham agree a deal to sign winger Yang Min-hyuk from Gangwon FC and the 18-year-old South Korean will join Spurs in January 2025.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Tottenham striker Richarlison rejects move to Saudi​

Striker Richarlison says he wants to stay at Tottenham Hotspur after turning down a move to Saudi Arabia.

The Brazil forward, 27, joined Spurs from Everton in 2022 for a club-record fee of £60m.

He has scored 15 goals in 66 appearances for Tottenham and was not a regular last season under Ange Postecoglou.

Richarlison, whose contract runs until 2027, has attracted interest from a number of clubs in Saudi Arabia, with one unnamed team tabling a bid.

However he says he wants to remain in England in order to improve his chances of continuing his international career with Brazil.

"There has been an offer but my dream of playing for the Brazilian Selecao and in the Premier League speaks louder," Richarlison told ESPN Brazil, external.

Spurs are interested in signing a striker this summer and have identified Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke as a target.

However the Cherries are keen to keep Solanke, who scored 21 goals in 42 games for Bournemouth last season but was overlooked for England's Euro 2024 squad.

He has a £65m release clause in his Bournemouth contract - which has three years left on it - but Tottenham value the striker at a lower price.

Richarlison: Tottenham striker rejects move to Saudi Arabia

Brazil striker Richarlison says he wants to remain at Tottenham next season despite an offer from a club in Saudi Arabia.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Tottenham in advanced talks to buy Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth​

Tottenham have stepped up their pursuit of Dominic Solanke and entered advanced talks with Bournemouth over signing the forward.

Ange Postecoglou said recently that the striker department was the “thinnest” of his Spurs squad. Solanke has emerged as the club’s preferred candidate and personal terms are not expected to be an issue.

Bournemouth’s owner, Bill Foley, confirmed this summer that Solanke’s deal until 2027 included a release clause of about £65m and the anticipated exit would be a club-record sale. Nathan Aké’s £40m transfer to Manchester City in 2020 was Bournemouth’s previous biggest departure.

Postecoglou gave the go-ahead for Spurs to pursue Solanke after the best season of the 26-year-old’s career. He scored 21 goals , including 19 in the Premier League, but also caught the eye with his pressing statistics and link-up play.

This expected transfer to Tottenham would give Solanke another opportunity at a top-six club, after he progressed through Chelsea’s academy as a teenager before he departed for Liverpool in 2017.

Middlesbrough have completed the signing of the attacking midfielder Micah Hamilton from Manchester City on a four-year contract. The 20-year-old made his City debut in the Champions League away to Red Star Belgrade last season, scoring in the 3-2 win.

Tottenham in advanced talks to buy Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth

Tottenham have stepped up their pursuit of Dominic Solanke and entered advanced talks with Bournemouth over signing the forward

www.theguardian.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Tottenham complete £65m deal for striker Solanke​

Tottenham Hotspur have signed England striker Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth in a deal worth up to £65m

Spurs will pay an initial £55m with £10m in add-ons for the 26-year-old, who has signed a contract until 2030.

Solanke, who has one cap, is Tottenham's fourth signing of the summer after Yang Min-hyuk, Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray.

Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou has been looking to strengthen his attack since England captain Harry Kane left for Bayern Munich last summer.

Solanke joined Bournemouth for £19m in 2019 from Liverpool, who are understood to have a 20% sell-on clause on any profit made by the Cherries from his sale.

He enjoyed the best season of his career in 2023-24, scoring 21 goals in 42 appearances.

Dominic Solanke: Tottenham sign Bournemouth striker for £65m

Tottenham Hotspur sign England striker Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth in a deal worth up to £65m.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Spurs' Bissouma apologises for laughing gas video​

Tottenham Hotspur's Yves Bissouma has apologised for a "severe lack of judgement" after footage emerged appearing to show the midfielder inhaling laughing gas.

The 27-year-old posted a video of himself on social media on Saturday which showed him inhaling from a balloon.

Possession of nitrous oxide - also known as laughing gas or NOS - for recreational use has been a criminal offence in the United Kingdom since 2023 and can result in a two-year prison sentence.

“I want to apologise for these videos. This was a severe lack of judgment," said Bissouma.

"I understand how serious this is and the health risks involved, and I also take my responsibility as a footballer and role model very seriously.”

Bissouma, who joined Spurs from Brighton for £30m in 2022, had played for 45 minutes in Spurs' friendly defeat against Bayern Munich earlier on Saturday afternoon.

“We are looking into the events," a Tottenham spokesperson said.

"This will be dealt with as an internal matter.”

Tottenham's 2024-25 Premier League campaign begins with a trip to newly-promoted Leicester City on 19 August.

Yves Bissouma: Tottenham midfielder apologises for laughing gas video

Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma has apologised for a "severe lack of judgement" after footage emerged appearing to show the midfielder inhaling laughing gas.

www.bbc.com

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Tottenham suspend Bissouma after laughing gas video

Tottenham have suspended Yves Bissouma for their Premier League game at Leicester City on Monday after footage appeared to show the midfielder inhaling laughing gas.

Spurs have made the move despite the 27-year-old apologising for a "severe lack of judgement", having posted a video of himself on social media on Saturday which showed him inhaling from a balloon.

Possession of nitrous oxide - also known as laughing gas or NOS - for recreational use has been a criminal offence in the United Kingdom since 2023 and can result in a two-year prison sentence.

"We've suspended him from Monday's game," said Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou.

"Beyond that, there's also some trust-building that needs to happen between Biss and me, as well as Biss and the group. That's what he needs to work hard at from now on - to try to win that back. He's going to have to earn that.

"The door is open for him and, hopefully, we can help him realise the decisions he makes impacts more than just him.

"Hopefully, it allows him to make better decisions moving forward."


BBC

 

[BouncerGuy]

Tottenham sign winger Odobert from Burnley

Tottenham Hotspur have signed winger Wilson Odobert from Burnley for an undisclosed fee until 2029.

Odobert, a France Under-21 international, joined Burnley last summer and made 34 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring five goals.

The 19-year-old became the Clarets' youngest ever Premier League goalscorer when he scored in a 4-1 defeat by Chelsea in October 2023.

He came through the Paris St-Germain academy before moving to French side Troyes in July 2022, where he scored four goals in 32 appearances.

Spurs begin their Premier League season away to Leicester City on Monday (20:00 BST).

BBC

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Spurs condemn 'abhorrent homophobic chanting'

Tottenham Hotspur say they will take the "strongest possible action" over "abhorrent homophobic chanting" during Sunday's win at Manchester United.

The chanting was heard as Spurs outclassed a 10-man United side to win 3-0 at Old Trafford.

In a statement, Tottenham condemned the chanting.

"This is simply unacceptable, hugely offensive and no way to show support for the team," the club said.

"The club will be working closely with the police and stewards to identify anyone instigating or joining in with the chanting - we shall take the strongest possible action in accordance with our sanctions and banning policy."

Spurs added: "We all have a responsibility to act as ambassadors of Tottenham Hotspur and discrimination of any kind has no place at our club."

Tottenham reminded supporters they can report incidents directly to them and that the club will continue its work with their LGBTQ+ supporters’ association, Proud Lilywhites.

"We're all Spurs fans just like you," Proud Lilywhites said on X. "When you sing these songs, you're telling us we don't belong; and we do, as much as you do."


BBC

 

[FearlessRoar]

Spurs fined £20,000 over scuffle in West Ham game​

Tottenham Hotspur have been fined £20,000 by the Football Association after accepting a charge of failing to control their players during the 4-1 win against West Ham United.

Both clubs were charged on Tuesday for failing to ensure their players "didn't behave in an improper and/or provocative and/or violent way".

Spurs admitted the charge and accepted the fine for the scuffle in last weekend's game.

Manager Ange Postecoglou acknowledged the "look of it was not great" but said there was "nothing untoward" in the incident.

"I'm not really sure what we did wrong," the Australian said in his media conference before Spurs' Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar.

"OK there was a coming together but I think a couple of our players had hit the deck by then so you'd like to think we'd go in there and at least protect [one another].

"I thought our players controlled themselves but obviously the FA felt differently."

The altercation occurred after Mohamed Kudus kicked Spurs defender Micky van de Ven then pushed the Netherlands defender and midfielder Pape Matar Sarr in the face.

The Ghana winger was initially shown a yellow card but it was upgraded to a red after a review by the video assistant referee.

The 24-year-old will serve a three-match ban for his dismissal.

He was separately charged on Tuesday for improper conduct for an incident "after the offence he was sent off for".

The former Ajax winger could serve an extra punishment on top of the three-game suspension if found guilty.

West Ham and Kudus have until Thursday to provide their responses.

Tottenham v West Ham scuffle: Spurs fined £20,000 over melee

Tottenham are fined £20,000 by the Football Association after accepting a charge of failing to control their players against West Ham.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Tottenham confirm star set for lengthy layoff after he posted picture from hospital bed

Tottenham star Wilson Odobert is facing another lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his right hamstring in the latest set-back for the Frenchman.

Odobert joined the club from Burnley for around £25million this summer but only played five times, suffering two major injury problems - with a hamstring problem initially ruling him out for a month.

He then played just two minutes of action towards the end of Tottenham's 1-0 win over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League before a recurrence of the issue saw him needing to go under the knife.

Tottenham confirmed he had undergone surgery and that he would be looked at closely by the club's medics before making a decision on a return date.''

A statement said: "We can confirm that Wilson Odobert underwent surgery to his right hamstring yesterday (Saturday 16 November). The 19-year-old will continue to be closely monitored by our medical team to determine when he can return to training."

Odobert posted a picture of himself in a hospital bed at the Princess Grace Hospital in Marylebone shortly after the surgery was finished, writing a caption that said "thanks God", with the player relieved he can begin his rehabilitation from a niggling problem.

The winger was a surprise signing for Tottenham this summer and his arrival went under the radar, with Spurs scouts impressed by the teenager's bright performances for Burnley under Vincent Kompany last season, despite their relegation.

Hamstrings have been a common theme in north London this season - with Mickey van de Ven and forward Richarlison also being sidelined by similar issues - while Timo Werner is currently out with a hip injury.

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou said he and his staff would have to be careful in welcoming injured stars back to ensure they don't lose any more players long-term, referencing Son as one player to be delicate with.

He said: "Ultimately for us it's about making sure we get [Son] back and keep him back. Because we can't afford any more injuries in that position. We've got Wilson [Odobert] with a long-term injury, we've got [Richarlison] with a long-term injury, we've got Mikey [Moore] out now so we can't afford to lose another player in that area of the park."

Tottenham confirm star set for lengthy layoff after having surgery

Tottenham have confirmed Wilson Odobert has undergone surgery - with boss Ange Postecoglou set to be without the French winger for an extended time in the latest injury set-back for his side

www.mirror.co.uk

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Huge development for Spurs?

 

[KingKhanWC]

Racially abusing your own team mate. Only a Spurs thing.

Racism is disgusting no doubt but 7 match ban seems harsh. Would be better to send to him some sort of race awarness program.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Rodrigo Bentancur: Tottenham appeal against length of midfielder's ban for Heung-Min Son remark​

Tottenham have appealed against the length of Rodrigo Bentancur's seven-match suspension for a racist remark made about team-mate Heung-Min Son in a TV interview.

The 27-year-old was also fined £100,000 by the Football Association as part of the punishment.

Spurs said in a statement that they "accept the guilty finding" against Bentancur, but "believe the subsequent sanction is severe".

His domestic suspension will remain in place while the appeal is heard, Spurs added.

Bentancur has been sanctioned over comments he made in an interview aired on Uruguayan TV in June.

The former Juventus midfielder was asked to show the shirt of a Spurs player and replied: "Sonny's? It could be Sonny's cousin too as they all look the same."

While an apology from Bentancur was swiftly forthcoming, due to this being an "aggravated breach", an independent regulatory commission panel were required to either uphold the FA charge or dismiss the case.

Son said he and Bentancur remained "brothers" and "nothing had changed" after the Uruguayan immediately apologised to him, admitting he had "made a mistake".

Rodrigo Bentancur: Tottenham appeal against length of midfielder's ban for Heung-Min Son remark

Warning: Some readers may find quotes within this article offensive; Spurs midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was handed a seven-game ban for racial slur about team-mate Heung-Min Son and East and Southeast Asians on a Uruguayan TV show

www.skysports.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Postecoglou backs Bentancur appeal after 'mistake'​

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou says midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur is an "outstanding person" who made a "mistake" with the racial slur made against team-mate Son Heung-min.

The Uruguay international, 27, was banned for seven matches by the Football Association earlier this week, following the comments he made while appearing on Uruguayan television in June.

Spurs have appealed against the ban, saying they accept the guilty finding but not the severity of the punishment.

"I fully support the club's decision to appeal the severity of the ban," Postecoglou told Sky Sports, external.

"I spoke to him in the lead-up [to the FA's decision] and as I said he understands he's made a mistake and he's prepared to accept whatever penalty comes his way.

"We as a club are going to support him because the one thing that's undeniable to me - because I know him - is that he's an outstanding person, an unbelievable team-mate and a person of the utmost character that's made a mistake."

Postecoglou says he accepts the FA's guilty verdict and that Bentancur will miss a number of matches.

In the media interview in question, asked by a presenter for a Tottenham shirt, Bentancur replied: "Sonny's? It could be Sonny's cousin too as they all look the same."

He later apologised on social media and said his comments were a "very bad joke".

Bentancur also said sorry to South Korea forward Son, who said his team-mate would "not mean to ever intentionally say something offensive".

Bentancur, who denied the charge, was fined £100,000 and ordered to undergo a face-to-face education programme.

The ban means Bentancur will miss Premier League matches against Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea among others, as well as a Carabao Cup quarter-final match against Manchester United.

He is available for Europa League matches.

Rodrigo Bentancur ban: Ange Postecoglou backs Tottenham against severity of midfielder's ban

Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou says Rodrigo Bentancur is an "outstanding person" that made a "mistake" with his racial slur against team-mate Son Heung-min.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Ange Postecoglou drops transfer hint over Tottenham’s January plans​

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou says the club must make signings in January to strengthen their attacking options.

Postecoglou’s squad has been stretched thin by injuries ahead of a busy run of games and Spurs will travel to Bournemouth on Thursday night without several key players, although Dominic Solanke could be fit in time to face his former side as he recovers from illness.

Tottenham have been without Richarlison and Wilson Odobert for most of the season due to hamstring injuries and although Postecoglou’s side are the Premier League’s top scorers this season the Australian said he is in need of attacking reinforcements.

"With Richy it has been frustrating because I see the potential in him and to be fair when he’s been fit he’s always made an impact. That’s what you kind of hold on to, but there’s no doubt we need some bolstering in that front third over the next couple of transfer windows,” Postecoglou said.

“Dom coming in has been great, but again we can’t overload him either, because ultimately, even if he stays fit and nothing happens, performance will invariably drop if his energy levels drop. So it’s something we’re aware of and need to plan for.”

Cristian Romero is not available for the trip to 13th-placed Bournemouth, adding to the absences of Micky van de Ven, goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and the suspended Rodrigo Bentancur. Teenager Mikel Moore is also sidelined, with Spurs facing Chelsea on Sunday as part of a crucial run of games in December.

“Dom is due to train today. He’s still not 100 per cent but he’s much better,” Postecoglou said. “Romero is due to have his last couple of sessions with the rehab guys today or tomorrow. We’re hoping that he’s back in training by Friday and at the latest early next week."

Ange Postecoglou drops transfer hint over Tottenham’s January plans

Spurs are the Premier League’s top scorers this season but Postecoglou said he needs more attacking options

www.independent.co.uk

 

[FearlessRoar]

Postecoglou has 'no interest' whether fans back him​

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou says he is not interested in whether fans back him after he was confronted by supporters.

A number of Spurs fans insulted Postecoglou following his side's 1-0 defeat at Bournemouth on Thursday.

"I didn't like what was being said because I'm a human being but you've got to cop it," Postecoglou said after the incident.

And, speaking on Friday before Spurs' London derby with Chelsea on Sunday, Postecoglou added: "They aren't behind me, they are behind the club. I have got no interest in who is behind me.

"Last night you have to figure the fans who travel to Bournemouth are fairly hardcore supporters.

"They weren't happy with what they saw and they felt like they needed to give some feedback. I took the feedback onboard and we move on."

Tottenham have won just one of their last six games in all competitions, although that victory was a 4-0 thrashing of reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.

When asked if he had a message for angry Spurs fans, Postecoglou said: "As I said last night, no messages. I am here, I am going to fight to make sure we bring success to this football club.

"Nothing really changes. Where there is doubt, whether that is internally or externally, it just gets my resolve stronger to make sure we get it right."

'We need to break the cycle'

Tottenham will be without seven first-team regulars for the trip to Stamford Bridge after Ben Davies injured his thigh against Bournemouth.

Cristian Romero will be assessed on Friday afternoon to see if he can play, but Postecoglou is not using injuries as an excuse for recent performances.

"For me the disappointment last night, there was a repeat of cycle of us going into games, starting well enough but then allowing the opposition to get a grip on it by either conceding a sloppy goal - like we did last night - or not taking our opportunities," he said.

"We need to break that cycle, irrespective of where we are at at the moment. We know we are really thin on the ground in terms of squad numbers. We know there is not a lot of opportunity to rotate and rest players. We paid the price with Benny [Davies] last night.

"Those are known things. What also is known is we repeatedly shot ourselves in the foot in games like last night and we need to change that."

Postecoglou also defended Tottenham's decision to sign predominantly young players over the summer.

"We needed to do that because it was a team that was coming towards the end of its cycle, and we were rebuilding not just the squad but the playing style, and you couldn't replace experience with experience because that is not a rebuild," he said.

"The decisions we made around signing young players are the right decisions for this club for where we are at right now, and they will bear fruit."

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou has 'no interest' whether fans are backing him

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou says he is not interested in whether fans back him after he was confronted by supporters.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Ange Postecoglou determined to get more consistency from Tottenham

Ange Postecoglou is determined to break Tottenham’s current cycle of inconsistency.

Spurs tasted defeat at Bournemouth on Thursday night to continue their Jekyll and Hyde results this season amid unsavoury scenes as a minority of the club’s away support hurled abuse at Postecoglou at full time.

Outstanding wins over Manchester United, Aston Villa and Manchester City have been coupled with flat displays in defeats to Crystal Palace and Ipswich during a run of seven victories from their last 14 matches in all competitions.

Next up is a London derby at home to high-flying Chelsea and while 10th-place Tottenham continue to battle with a spate of unavailability, Postecoglou will not accept their current form.

He said: “It doesn’t sit well with me. Nor should it. I’m not going to accept it. My role within that and my responsibility is to change that because if we’re going to get to where I want us to get to, we need to break that cycle of not showing the belief and resilience in key moments.

“Nothing has changed in terms of my resolve to play the type of football I want to play and be that kind of team.

“It’s just that we haven’t understood the other side of that and that is the discipline and resilience to overcome difficult moments, so that the football we have can come through.

“When we have won this year, we have been pretty compelling. It’s not just struggling victories. Every game we have won, we have been very dominant and exactly the team we want to be.

“So, we have shown the potential of what we can be but that kind of gets diminished by performances like (Bournemouth).”

From the moment since I’ve come in, I have the ability and the opportunity to change things so that’s what I am endeavouring to do.

A regular stick to beat Tottenham with is the ‘Spursy’ tag which has followed the club amid a trophy drought going back to 2008.

Ex-Celtic boss Postecoglou, who could have vice-captain Cristian Romero back on Sunday, pointed out this season’s wins in Manchester should show there is not a mentality issue at Spurs.

However, the 59-year-old acknowledged performances like at Bournemouth will do little to dissuade their detractors ahead of a crucial fixture with Chelsea, who won 4-1 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last season in an extraordinary match where the hosts’ finished with nine-men but almost snatched a point.

Postecoglou added: “It’s a funny one because if you talk about mentality, you’d think mentality would be ‘well, against the big teams, you come up short.’

“I didn’t go into this job where I felt there was something institutionalised here that would stop this club having success. I just don’t think that way.

“I think everything while I am here is in my control. So, I’m not going to palm off responsibility to whatever we’re going through to things that have existed in the past.

“From the moment since I’ve come in, I have the ability and the opportunity to change things so that’s what I am endeavouring to do. The key is to understand that Bournemouth is not a lesser team. They have beaten City and Arsenal at home.

“So, we knew it was a tough game, particularly in the spell we are in at the moment where we have a lot of football with a thin squad.

“We prepared ourselves for a tough game, that was going to be tougher than any other game we were going to face last night and the disappointing thing is, like I said, that in a game where we started well, we once again allowed the opposition to play the game on their terms by us lacking discipline and conviction in a key moment. And we can’t keep doing that.”

Ange Postecoglou determined to get more consistency from Tottenham

Injury-hit Tottenham lost at Bournemouth on Thursday to continue their Jekyll and Hyde form this season.

www.independent.co.uk

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Romero criticises Spurs board for lack of spending​

Tottenham defender Cristian Romero has criticised the club's board for a lack of investment following the disappointing 4-3 loss at home to Chelsea.

Spurs let a 2-0 lead slip on Sunday and Ange Postecoglou's side have now won just one of their past seven games in all competitions.

Speaking to Spanish broadcaster Telemundo Deportes following the defeat, Argentina international Romero said a lack of spending is seeing the club fall behind their rivals.

"Manchester City competes every year, you see how Liverpool strengthens its squad, Chelsea strengthens their squad, doesn't do well, strengthens again, and now they're seeing results. Those are the things to imitate," said Romero.

"You have to realise that something is going wrong, hopefully, they [the board] realise it."

The result against London rivals Chelsea left Tottenham in the bottom half of the Premier League table, sitting 11th after 15 games.

Similar runs of form have seen Spurs part ways with managers in recent years, but Romero believes the board should take the blame rather than Postecoglou.

The Australian is the fifth manager, including caretakers, that the 26-year-old has played under since arriving in 2021.

"The last few years, it's always the same - first the players, then the coaching staff changes, and it's always the same people responsible," said Romero, in an interview translated from Spanish.

"Hopefully they realise who the true responsible ones are and we move forward because it's a beautiful club that, with the structure it has, could easily be competing for the title every year."

Source: BBC

 

[Cricket Warrior]

'Not acceptable' - Postecoglou criticises Werner display

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou says Timo Werner's performance was "not acceptable" after replacing him at half-time in the 1-1 Europa League draw at Rangers.

The German forward, 28, lost possession 16 times, did not win any of his five duels and only completed 69% of his passes.

Former Rangers striker Steven Thompson, covering the game for BBC Sportsound, said at the time: "Timo Werner's final decision on the ball so far has been abysmal.

"I'll be amazed if he's not hooked at half-time."

Werner was indeed replaced before the players came out for the second half by Dejan Kulusevski, who went on to score a 75th-minute Spurs equaliser after Hamza Igamane had given Rangers the lead two minutes into the second half.

"When you've got 18-year-olds [in the squad], it [that performance] is not acceptable to me," said Postecoglou.

"I said that to Timo, he's a German international."

Former Chelsea forward Werner, who is on loan from RB Leipzig, has only scored once in 19 appearances. This was his eighth start.

Tottenham forwards Richarlison and Wilson Odobert are currently sidelined and Postecoglou added: "In the moment we're in right now - it's not like we've got many options - I need everyone to at least be going out there and trying to give the best of themselves.

"His performance in the first half wasn't acceptable.

"We need everybody, including him, to be contributing because we don't have the depth to leave people out if they perform poorly. I expect a level of performance from some of the senior guys, and tonight wasn't that."

The draw at Ibrox left Tottenham with only one win in their last eight games in all competitions.

Timo Werner: Tottenham forward's performance 'not acceptable' - Ange Postecoglou

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou says Timo Werner's performance was "not acceptable" after replacing him at half-time in the 1-1 Europa League draw with Rangers.

bbc.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Ange Postecoglou rails against ‘offensive’ criticism of Spurs tenure

Ange Postecoglou has said some of the criticism he receives is offensive, personal and disrespectful. The Tottenham manager, whose attack-minded tactics have been questioned – most recently after Thursday’s 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Manchester United – wonders whether this is influenced by his Australian accent or the disdain he shows for established practices.

Postecoglou said he saw the same thing happen to Unai Emery at Arsenal and Nuno Espírito Santo when the Portuguese was in charge of Spurs. Emery, now at Aston Villa, was ridiculed at times for his difficulties with English pronunciation. Nuno is doing well at Nottingham Forest after an unhappy 17-game spell at Spurs in 2021.

The current Tottenham manager took aim at the Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher, who said after the United tie that Spurs needed to change their approach; they almost blew a 3-0 lead with shaky defending. Carragher was not mentioned by name but Postecoglou knew who the questioner was talking about.

“Jamie Carragher, mate … you can name him, he’ll enjoy that,” he said. “People tell me he likes me so that’s a good thing. They say: ‘Did you hear what he said? But he likes you as a person.’ So that’s important to me.”

Postecoglou accepts that pundits such as Carragher are there to offer opinions and “it is healthy if it’s coming from the right sort of place”. The trouble is – and Postecoglou was not referring to Carragher here – that it is not always the case.

“Some of the other stuff, I kind of don’t understand because it’s just about getting headlines,” he said. “There is some stuff out there which I find … and at the appropriate time I’ll call it out … just offensive towards me. I don’t know … I’m up here with a silly accent and maybe I don’t take things as seriously as people want me to and I’m fairly dismissive of them. But that’s all right. I love my life and I’ll keep doing what I’m doing.

“It’s not the first time in my career. You feel that 26 years of hard graft [as a manager] should get you a little more respect and I’m not the only one – I have seen it happen to other managers. I saw it happen to Unai. I saw it happen to Nuno when he was here.

“I said last week that we have crossed the Rubicon in terms of how we treat people sometimes. I get that not everyone will be a fan of the way I do things and even the way I play. People will have different opinions – that’s normal, that’s healthy. But some of it has been pretty dismissive.”

The style debate continues to rage, sparked in part by Postecoglou’s comment immediately after the United game. “Are you not entertained?” he said, echoing the famous line from Russell Crowe’s Maximus in Gladiator.

“Top film, top actor and a fellow Aussie,” Postecoglou said. “I genuinely believe that a big part of our game is … maybe entertainment is the wrong word, but you go to the game to feel emotions that in your day-to-day existence you don’t get the opportunity to – both exhilarating and anxious. That’s what we love about it. There’s a lot of suffering in there but if you come out on the right side it’s an exhilarating feeling.”

SOURCE: https://www.theguardian.com/footbal...ails-against-offensive-criticism-spurs-tenure

 

[FearlessRoar]

Spurs could have no fit centre-back after Davies 'setback'​

Tottenham could be without any fit centre-backs for Sunday's Premier League game against Wolves after Ben Davies suffered a setback in his recovery.

The Wales international, 31, has been out since 5 December with a hamstring injury.

Davies had been nearing a return, but manager Ange Postecoglou said on Friday: "No, he is ruled out. Unfortunately he had a setback in training, so he'll probably be out for a couple of weeks."

Radu Dragușin will also be assessed after he was forced off with an ankle injury in Thursday's defeat by Nottingham Forest.

If the Romanian is ruled out he would join Davies and Spurs' other centre-backs Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero on the sidelines.

"A bit early to tell," Postecoglou said of Dragușin's injury.

"He obviously tweaked his ankle last night and felt he couldn't continue. We'll have to wait and see."

After Dragusin limped off in the 87th minute of the 1-0 defeat at Forest, Spurs finished with 18-year-old Archie Gray, who has been filling in in defence, and fellow midfielder Yves Bissouma in the centre-back roles.

Full-back Djed Spence is also suspended for the 15:00 GMT kick-off against Wolves as Postecoglou said the injury crisis is the worst he has faced in his managerial career.

"There's always been issues at different times but not to this extent," he added.

"I think we've had close to pretty consistently 10 first-team players not available for a significant run of games.

"We've been kind of getting through it for quite a while and keeping our fingers crossed we don't get any more issues, but the nature of football and fixture scheduling we've had, we've always been on a fine line of being able to get through.

"It's another test for us, but it is what it is, and whatever we need to deal with, we'll deal with and get ready for Sunday."

The Forest defeat was Spurs' ninth of the season and left them 11th in the Premier League.

They play Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-finals next month and Postecoglou said he still feels the support of the club's fans despite the increased pressure and criticism of his attacking style.

"They love their football club, they care about their football club and they want their football club to succeed," said the Australian. "They make those feelings and emotions seen.

"I haven't felt anything but support since I have been here. I still feel that support is there. I will keep doing what I think is the right thing to bring success to this football club, that doesn't change."

Tottenham injury news: Ben Davies suffers setback as Spurs could be without fit centre-back

Tottenham could be without any fit centre-backs for Sunday's Premier League game against Wolves after Ben Davies suffers a setback in his recovery.

www.bbc.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Spurs sign Czech goalkeeper Kinsky for £12.5m​

Tottenham have signed 21-year-old Czech goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky from Slavia Prague in a deal worth about £12.5m.

Spurs have been without first-choice keeper Guglielmo Vicario since he fractured an ankle on 24 November during the 4-0 win over Manchester City.

Fraser Forster has been deputising for Vicario, but he missed Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Newcastle with illness, which led to a debut for 25-year-old Brandon Austin.

Spurs have only won two of their past 11 games and are 12th in the Premier League.

Kinsky has agreed a deal until 2031 and the move is subject to the granting of international clearance and a work permit.

After joining from Dukla Prague in 2021, he spent some time on loan before establishing himself at Slavia.

The Czech Republic Under-21 player has made 29 appearances for Slavia this season and kept 14 clean sheets.

Tottenham transfer news: Antonin Kinsky joins for £12.5m

Tottenham sign 21-year-old Czech goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky from Slavia Prague in a deal worth about £12.5m.

www.bbc.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Spurs trigger extension in Son contract until 2026

Tottenham have triggered an option to extend forward Son Heung-min's contract by a year, until the summer of 2026.

The 32-year-old joined Spurs from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 and has scored 169 goals in 431 appearances for the club.

The South Korea international has 125 goals and 68 assists in 320 Premier League outings.

He was part of a Spurs side that reached the club's first Champions League final in 2019 and helped them finish fifth in the top flight last season.

Tottenham are 12th in the current campaign, with Son scoring five goals and registering six assists in 17 top-flight appearances.

The north London side have made the announcement prior to the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final at home to Liverpool on Wednesday.

BBC

 

[BouncerGuy]

'Bergvall is headline act as young Spurs show incredible maturity'

Ange Postecoglou trusted to the exuberance and talent of youth to release the pressure on his position as Tottenham manager - and was rewarded with one of the most crucial wins of his reign.

Postecoglou has been feeling the strain of poor results in recent weeks, but the smiles were back on the players' faces as Spurs secured a 1-0 advantage over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.

As well as the win that keeps Postecoglou on course to keep his promise that he always wins a trophy in his second season at a club, he was also able to tell three good news stories that vindicate his transfer strategy - often criticised - of acquiring promising young talents to build a bright future.

Step forward 18-year-old Swedish match-winner Lucas Bergvall, 21-year-old debutant keeper Antonin Kinsky - barely through the door having signed from Slavia Prague in a £12.5m deal on Monday - and another teenager in Archie Grey.

Bergvall's decisive contribution will be shrouded in controversy because Liverpool, with justification, will believe he should not have been on the pitch after referee Stuart Attwell allowed play to continue after a wild challenge on Kostas Tsimikas that could have brought a second yellow card moments before his 86th minute winner.

He will be the headline act, but he must share that spotlight with Kinsky and Gray, who showed remarkable maturity in such high pressure situations against high quality opposition.

Postecoglou was without 10 players through injury and illness, a number that quickly increased to 11 when Rodrigo Bentancur was taken off on a stretcher following 10 minutes of treatment after going down with a head injury at a corner.

Happily, he was later reported to be conscious and talking to provide more good news for Postecoglou and Spurs.

Bergvall was the centre of attention with a confident, classy, feisty - Liverpool would suggest too feisty performance in midfield.

This was a landmark moment for the young Swede, creative and competitive as he made the most chances of Spurs' players - three from open play, as well as scoring the winner.

Bergvall finished emphatically past Alisson with four minutes left, joining illustrious company as, at 18 years and 341 days, he is the club's youngest League Cup scorer since Gareth Bale, who was 18 years and 72 days when he scored against Middlesbrough in September 2007.

The £8.5m paid to Djurgarden in February 2024 - before loaning him back to the Swedish club for the rest of the season - already looks a snip. On a performance like this, just his fourth start for the club, it is easy to see why Barcelona also wanted to sign him.

Just as remarkable was the story of Kinsky, who only got his work permit on Monday after arriving from Slavia Prague but was thrown straight in by Postecoglou, who is without injured Guglielmo Vicario and Fraser Forster, choosing the youngster ahead of Brandon Austin.

Kinsky showed remarkable confidence with the ball at his feet, completing one catch after a neat juggle early on, always willing to take the positive option - although he escaped in the first half when he slipped as he went to collect Cody Gakpo's routine shot.

And he responded superbly when put to the test as Liverpool finally applied pressure late on, dashing from his goal to block Darwin Nunez's angled shot before making his best save of the night, reacting to dive away to his right to turn away the striker's header in the closing seconds.

It was a dream introduction, admittedly a gamble by Postecoglou but one that worked, the keeper falling into the arms of sister Andrea for an emotional lengthy embrace at the final whistle as tears were shed, with his father, Antonin snr. - a former Czech international keeper - also watching on.

A little more under the radar but just as impressive was another 18-year-old, Archie Gray, who has shown commendable character and courage after being plunged into the unfamiliar role of central defender as players such as Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven were absent through injury.

He will flourish in his recognised position in midfield as time goes by, but he is a real talent, as proved by his composure in one moment in the second half, ignoring the anxiety of the crowd to move smoothly out of defence before setting Spurs away on the attack.

Gray was unruffled by Liverpool's potent charge, a genuine star of the future. The £40m paid to Leeds United could be another bargain buy.

Postecoglou was delighted with his youngsters, saying: "It is incredible when you think we had a couple of 18-year-olds out there. I have seen so much growth. I have no doubt we will get through this period and get players back. What I've found in the meantime is that we have some real players to help us be the team we want to be."

In such extreme circumstances, with so many players missing and a four-match winless streak that included a 6-3 thrashing at home to Liverpool, this was the sort of result and performance that should provide the perfect tonic for Postecoglou and his players.

It was also another example of the wildly contradictory and inconsistent nature of Spurs, their last six wins coming containing two against Manchester City, a 4-1 thrashing of Aston Villa, a 5-0 win at Southampton, a 4-3 triumph against Manchester City then this, only Liverpool's second loss under head coach Arne Slot.

The Spurs lead may be slender as they go to Anfied, but the gap of a month between the semi-final first and second legs gives Postecoglou to have some of his most important players back fit for the test at Anfield, Romero and Van de Ven in particular.

Spurs and Postecoglou have come under the critical microscope in recent times - this was a night when the manager and the young players he trusts implicitly could bask in a more flattering spotlight.

BBC

 

[hassan918]

Son Heung-min scored twice as Tottenham Hotspur claimed a much-needed Europa League win at Hoffenheim to put them in a strong position to qualify automatically for the knockout stage.

Spurs have struggled domestically in a difficult season and Sunday's defeat at Everton left them 15th in the Premier League.

But Thursday's trip to Germany provided welcome respite, with Son's double and an early James Maddison strike securing a victory that moved them up to fourth in league phase of the Europa League, before the evening kick-offs.

Spurs looked purposeful from the outset and got a goal after just four minutes to settle the travelling fans' nerves when Pedro Porro played a great ball for Maddison, who controlled before driving it into the roof of the net.

The visitors doubled their advantage midway through the first half when Son raced into the box, his shot deflected off Pavel Kaderabek and looped over goalkeeper Oliver Baumann into the back of the net.

Brandon Austin, making just his second start in goal for Spurs, needed to be alert to prevent Hoffenheim pulling one back when he pushed away Tom Bischof's strike.

The hosts came out fighting in the second half as they looked to get back into the game, and Spurs' relief of a penalty decision awarded against them being overturned was swiftly ended when Anton Stach flicked in following a counter-attack.

The goal will have prompted concerns that Tottenham, who have been vulnerable to pressure in the past, would capitulate - but Son fizzed a fine strike into the far corner to restore their two-goal advantage.

But David Mokwa's header two minutes from time meant Spurs fans could not rest easy until the final whistle was blown.

Tottenham host Elfsborg in their final league phase game next Thursday when a win will likely secure a top-eight spot and send them into the knockout stage.

Source: BBC

 

[hassan918]

Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke is set to be out for "around six weeks" with a knee injury, says head coach Ange Postecoglou, as the club's injury crisis deepens.

Solanke was one of 14 senior players absent from Spurs' 3-2 win at Hoffenheim in the Europa League on Thursday.

BBC

 

[BouncerGuy]

Tottenham beat Wolves to sign Lens defender Danso

Tottenham have signed Lens defender Kevin Danso on loan with a commitment to buy after beating Wolves to the deal.

The 26-year-old opted to move to Spurs despite having had a medical lined up in the Midlands.

Danso's transfer incorporates the obligation to make it a permanent deal, which is reportedly worth £21m, with a five-year contract lined up in the summer.

Austria international Danso will take the no4 shirt and the move is subject to international clearance and a work permit being issued, which is expected to arrive before Thursday's Carabao Cup semi-final match at Liverpool.

Danso has played 10 games in English football during a loan spell with Southampton in the 2019-20 season - having also spent time in the academies of Reading and MK Dons.

His arrival follows Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou's repeated requests for help amid a 10-player injury crisis.

Spurs had been looking at signing attacking players but have switched to defensive targets after Radu Dragusin suffered a knee injury against Elfsborg on Thursday.

The Romanian centre-back joined Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie on the injury list, but Micky van de Ven has recently returned.

Multiple sources have explained that Spurs have looked at other central defenders, including Chelsea's Axel Disasi and AC Milan's Fikayo Tomori.

BBC

 

[BouncerGuy]

Tottenham defender Dragusin suffers ACL injury

Tottenham Hotspur defender Radu Dragusin is set to miss the rest of the season after injuring the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

The 23-year-old suffered the injury during Tottenham's defeat of Elfsborg in the Europa League last week and has to have surgery.

He is expected to be out for at least six months and some ACL injuries can keep players out of action for up to a year.

Tottenham said Dragusin "will be assessed by our medical team to determine when he can return to training".

Dragusin started 21 of Tottenham's past 23 games.

The Romania international joins Destiny Udogie, Guglielmo Vicario, James Maddison, Brennan Johnson, Timo Werner, Wilson Odobert, Cristian Romero and Dominic Solanke on the sidelines, while fellow defenders Micky van de Ven and Ben Davies have only recently returned to action.

Dragusin joined Tottenham from Genoa in a £25m deal in January 2024.

On Sunday, Tottenham signed Austria defender Kevin Danso on loan for the rest of the season, with a purchase option worth £21m.

On Monday, they had a £70m offer for England defender Marc Guehi rejected by Crystal Palace, but signed 19-year-old attacker Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich.

BBC

 

[BouncerGuy]

Irish teenager Melia in 'record' transfer to Spurs

Teenager Mason Melia has agreed to join Tottenham Hotspur for what St Patrick's Athletic have announced is a "record transfer fee for a League of Ireland player".

The 17-year-old made his senior debut in May 2023 and became the youngest scorer in league history aged 15.

The deal, which is reportedly worth an initial £1.6m,, external will see Melia move from St Pat's to the Premier League side in January 2026 on a five-year contract.

The County Wicklow native has made 54 appearances for St Pat's, scoring 10 times, and earned his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad in October 2024.

In 2023, he became the youngest player to play in an FAI Cup final when he helped his side defeat Bohemians to lift the trophy.

St Pat's manager Stephen Kenny praised Melia's ability as a goalscorer, with the former Republic of Ireland manager adding that he believed the striker will enjoy a fruitful international career.

"Mason is a terrific talent with an exceptional attitude and a real appetite for hard work," Kenny told the club's website.

"He has had a dramatic impact for one so young, his performances in our Conference League games playing as a central striker against high calibre opposition were of real quality.

"Mason has repeated those performances at international level for Ireland and has a bright future ahead for his country."

BBC

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Postecoglou: Tel never rejected Tottenham

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has denied reports that Mathys Tel initially rejected the club before his deadline day move to north London.

Last week, reports emerged that the 19-year-old forward refused to move to Spurs even after meeting chairman Daniel Levy in Germany.

But Tel was pictured flying to London on Monday before completing a transfer deadline-day move from Bayern Munich, joining initially on loan but with Spurs holding a £47.5m option to buy in the summer.

When asked about whether Tel rejected Spurs, Postecoglou said: "I think people need to understand that you are talking about a 19-year-old who has to make a major decision for his career and it's not that he rejected us or rejected anyone else.

"I think he just wanted to be comfortable with his decision. I don't think he wanted to be pushed in a certain direction and it's credit to him.

"I had a conversation with him and it was purely around the football and I think he'll find a really good place for him here."

Postecoglou has previously said he only wants to sign players committed to the club's project, despite them currently sitting 14th in the Premier League table.

When asked if he felt Tel was committed to Spurs, Postecoglou said: "Yes, 100%. I am more than 100% sure because he took so much time, was so diligent about finding out everything. He had other options so it gave me more confidence that we are getting the right kind of mentality, the right kind of player.

"He is very ambitious. He has a great self-belief and confidence. He feels he can reach the top of the game and he has chosen us which is great vindication of what we are doing."

Tel could make his debut as Spurs defend a 1-0 lead against Liverpool at Anfield on Thursday night in the second leg of the Carabao Cup.

Postecoglou confirmed Tel and new defensive signing Kevin Danso will be available but key defensive duo Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero remain out.


BBC

 

[FearlessRoar]

Tottenham fans call for Daniel Levy exit at protest ahead of Man Utd clash​

Tottenham fans turned out in numbers to protest against chairman Daniel Levy and the club’s ownership before Sunday’s home fixture with Manchester United.

Frustration amongst supporters has increased throughout a difficult winter period and last week saw Ange Postecoglou’s injury-hit team crash out of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup in the space of 72 hours.

Fan group Change for Tottenham had already arranged a protest for the visit of United and a crowd of at least two thousand made their way down the High Road before they congregated outside the stadium where various chants for Levy to leave the club followed.

A number of banners were held up as fans gathered outside the West Stand.

The largest – aimed at majority owners ENIC – read: ‘24 years, 16 managers, 1 trophy – Time for change’.

Another banner said: ‘Our Game Is About Glory, Levy’s Game is About Greed’.

Earlier this week Change for Tottenham member Christina Zandes told the PA news agency: “Even if we do get a win on Sunday, it doesn’t matter – we still want change to happen.

“This cycle is on repeat and we can’t keep going on with this. We’re tired.

“A lot of the fans are disconnected completely from the club and it’s a horrible feeling to see how bad we’re struggling right now and it should not be happening.”

Frustration has often centred on Tottenham’s lengthy trophy drought, with the 2008 League Cup their last silverware.

Data released by financial experts Deloitte last month has also been used against chairman Levy and ENIC.

Spurs placed ninth in Deloitte’s list of the world’s richest clubs with revenue of £520million from the 2023-24 season, but the club’s spend of 42 per cent of its revenue on wages was the lowest of any team in the top 10. It was also lower than all eight Premier League clubs in Deloitte’s top 20 with West Ham, Newcastle and Aston Villa spending more of their revenue on wages.

While Spurs signed Dominic Solanke for £65million from Bournemouth last summer alongside a number of highly-rated teenage prospects, it has failed to translate into consistent results with Postecoglou’s squad unable to cope with the demand of extra cup fixtures.

Tottenham fans call for Daniel Levy exit at protest ahead of Man Utd clash

Frustration amongst Spurs supporters towards chairman Levy has grown during a difficult winter period.

www.independent.co.uk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Maddison does 'talking on the pitch' in response to critics

James Maddison says he is doing his "talking on the pitch" in response to the critics who questioned him before he scored the winner as Tottenham beat Manchester United on Sunday.

Maddison was the only player following in after United keeper Andre Onana parried Lucas Bergvall's shot, allowing him to complete an easy tap-in to score the match's only goal.

He marked the strike with both a talking and shushing gesture celebration.

And after the match, without naming any individual critics, he told Sky Sports: "There was a little bit of outside noise this week.

"People will have their opinions, but I wanted to do my talking on the pitch. I hope there is a certain few that enjoyed me being the match-winner today."

This week, former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane said on The Overlap podcast that Maddison "got relegated with Leicester and he'll get relegated with Spurs".

Keane also stressed that Maddison was a "talented player", but said those who thought his return would help Spurs break into the top six "were in cuckoo land".

The 28-year-old had been out of action since picking up a calf injury against Hoffenheim in the Europa League on January 23.

His goal against United was his first in the Premier League since December and his 10th in all competitions this season.

Sandwiched between his talking and shushing gestures, Maddison also performed his usual darts throw celebration.

When asked about responding to criticism, he added: "You do see it and it is there. Especially when it's a big profile name.

"Nobody is more critical of myself than me. To be fair to the gaffer, he always talks about blocking out the outside noise, but sometimes it's difficult, you know. It is constantly in your face. Social media and WhatsApp, sending people's stuff."


BBC