Ange Postecoglou has expressed confidence in his makeshift squad to handle the formidable challenge posed by Galatasaray in the crucial Europa League clash. Tottenham, with three wins out of three in the new eight-game format, are on the brink of securing a playoff spot with another victory in Istanbul. However, they will face the Turkish league leaders, who have only dropped two points in 10 domestic games, with a significantly depleted lineup. This match will be a significant test for the less-experienced players in Postecoglou’s squad, even though the modern Ramat Park does not quite replicate the infamous “Welcome to hell” atmosphere of the old Ali Sami Yen stadium.
“I’m sure they’re all looking forward to it,” Postecoglou said, referring to the opportunity to play in front of such passionate support. “That’s why you play football. This generation, a lot of them experienced what football was like without supporters [during the Covid lockdowns] and certainly don’t like that. It’s a fantastic stadium, the supporters create an unbelievable atmosphere here and they love the big European nights.”
Galatasaray, boasting a formidable team under manager Okan Buruk, includes a strikeforce of Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi, and a defense anchored by former Spurs center-back Davinson Sánchez. Postecoglou acknowledged their attacking prowess, stating, “They definitely have a lot of threat in the front third. Their attacking players are very, very good individually. They’re a strong team physically so we’re going to have to match the attacking threats they have with the way we play.”
Injuries and illness have further complicated Postecoglou’s plans. The 17-year-old winger Mikey Moore, who was set to start his third consecutive European game, has been sidelined by a virus. Richarlison, who recently returned from injury, has also been ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury in the win over Aston Villa. Postecoglou revealed that Timo Werner has been carrying a groin problem, while Cristian Romero may return against Ipswich on Sunday. Other absentees include Micky van de Ven, Wilson Odobert, and Djed Spence.
Despite these setbacks, Postecoglou remains optimistic. Brennan Johnson and Son Heung-min are likely to continue on the flanks, while young striker Will Lankshear may get a start to keep Dominic Solanke fresh. Solanke, who scored twice against Villa, is keen to build on his recent return to the England squad under Thomas Tuchel. “I’d love to be there again,” Solanke said. “I worked hard to get back there so it’s definitely an aim of mine to stay there.”
Source link: https://www.theguardian.com
