Ange Postecoglou still seems to have the support of the board and his players, but the patience of the fans is running out.
The Greek-Australian squad continues to be ravaged by injuries and there are undoubtedly extenuating circumstances for Tottenham’s miserable run over the past few months. Their availability issues appeared to have worsened ahead of Thursday European league against Hoffenheim, but Postecoglou should bring back some of his players next month.
This competition is crucial for the Spurs boss and a place in the top eight would be ideal given that the beaten side would avoid two extra play-off games in their bid to reach the last 16.
With Tottenham currently ninth in the league table, Thursday’s match is significant. Here’s how they could line up against Hoffenheim.
GK: Brandon Austin – Antonin Kinsky is not eligible and Fraser Forster has not appeared in the matchday squad this year. Austin could make his second start for the club with number one Guglielmo Vicario also sidelined.
RB: Pedro Porro – It has been a miserable campaign for Porro so far, but the Spaniard exited after the defeat to Everton and continued to support his manager. Postecoglou could use an upswing in form from his right back.
CB: Radu Dragušin – The Romania international was an injury concern after Sunday’s game but trained before his flight to Germany and should continue in the squad.
CB: Archie Gray – Gray was used in a hybrid role at the weekend and Postecoglou is unlikely to opt for an out-of-possession back three on Thursday. The young man should return to the role with which he began to get acquainted.
LB: Ben Davies – With Ded Spence and Sergio Reguilon both unregistered, Davies, who returned from injury at the weekend, is expected to start at left-back with Destiny Udogie out.
CM: Rodrigo Bentancur – Bentancur was sidelined for several weeks with concussion and struggled to be available for most of the 2024/25 season. Spurs could be desperate for some stability from their classy Uruguayan midfielder.
CM: Lucas Bergvall – The Swedish teenager has stood out in Spurs’ tussle and will continue with Pape Sarra, the latest to succumb to Tottenham’s injury.
CM: James Maddison – Maddison’s numbers have been quite impressive this term, but Spurs need more from their main playmaker amid their ongoing feud. Since he shone at the Etihad, he has not come to the fore.
RW: Dejan Kulusevski – Kulusevski’s best work has been in the center this season, but Postecoglou is likely to be forced to use him out wide again on Thursday in Brennan Johnson’s absence. The 24-year-old scored a beautiful goal at Goodison Park.
ST: Richarlison – Without Dominic Solanke, Tottenham need another £60m to get back on their feet. Number one priority: stay in shape. Priority number two: win a few.
LW: Mikey Moore – Son Heung-min’s role must be diminished. It’s time for Moore to come to the fore after making a terrific cameo appearance at Goodison Park on Sunday. The teenager has the talent to ignite this slump Tottenham team.
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