“He is good, but there is nothing we can do to help”- Spurs chief Scout confirms Spurs new replacement for Micky Van de Ven, NOT DRAGUSIN
Tottenham Hotspur is reportedly gearing up for a crucial defensive reinforcement in the January transfer window after their key center-back, Micky van de Ven, suffered an injury in their recent Premier League victory over Manchester City. The Dutch international was seen clutching his hamstring as he was substituted early in the game, with Destiny Udogie stepping in just 14 minutes after kickoff. This development has raised fresh concerns for Spurs, as Van de Ven has already endured injury troubles since his arrival, including a two-month absence last season due to a similar hamstring problem. The latest setback has highlighted a recurring vulnerability in Tottenham’s defensive setup, leading to calls within the club to bolster their options at the back.
At just 23 years old, Van de Ven has quickly established himself as an integral part of Ange Postecoglou’s plans, forming a solid partnership with Cristian Romero in central defense. The duo has provided stability and grit to Tottenham’s backline, a notable improvement compared to previous seasons. However, Van de Ven’s persistent injuries are posing a significant dilemma for the team, especially as Tottenham aims to stay competitive across multiple fronts this season. Tottenham is reportedly looking to the January transfer window as a solution, exploring potential signings who could either serve as direct support for Van de Ven and Romero or act as rotational players to ease the load on the two defenders. The club understands that their defensive depth will be vital if they are to maintain their push for a top-four finish, with injuries already testing the resilience of their squad.
Mike Brown, a former scout at Tottenham, has voiced concerns about the state of Spurs’ defense, highlighting the need for reinforcements to address not only Van de Ven’s fitness issues but also to provide cover for Romero, who has also struggled with injuries in the past. Speaking to Football Insider, Brown expressed his apprehension: “Tottenham’s defensive lineup worries me. They’re falling short on the basics at the back, and even with their preferred starters fit, they’re not as solid as they could be. The team lacks the kind of depth you need to confidently rotate players. They may have Romero and Van de Ven as the primary pairing, but beyond them, they’re thin on quality options that could really hold up over a demanding season.”
Indeed, defensive depth has been a pressing concern at Tottenham for several seasons. This year, the challenge has only intensified as Postecoglou implements a more high-pressing, physically intense style of play that requires defenders capable of both technical prowess and stamina. While Romero and Van de Ven have generally stepped up, Tottenham’s backup options have been limited, forcing Postecoglou to sometimes adapt his tactical approach. The limited depth has even affected Spurs’ ability to adequately cover defensive roles when either starting center-back is sidelined, making a winter reinforcement almost a necessity.
According to reports from FourFourTwo, Tottenham is actively considering options in the January transfer market. Last season, they signed Radu Dragusin in an attempt to shore up their backline, but the young Romanian’s lack of experience and his recent Europa League red card have raised doubts about his readiness to handle the pressures of Tottenham’s system. With Dragusin’s inconsistency adding to their concerns, Spurs may look to acquire a player with a stronger track record and Premier League experience. One possible target is Liverpool’s Joe Gomez, a seasoned defender known for his versatility and resilience, which Tottenham sees as potential assets for bolstering their defense. Gomez’s experience in high-stakes situations with Liverpool could make him an ideal fit, offering Tottenham the sort of steady presence they currently lack beyond their starting pair.
The importance of a January signing has been underscored by comments from Postecoglou himself, who acknowledged the challenge of managing Van de Ven’s fitness while navigating the physical demands of his playing style. In a recent press conference, the Spurs boss commented on Van de Ven’s recent appearances at left-back: “I’ve been mindful of Micky, given his injury history. Left-back requires a different level of stamina in our system, and with Micky’s recent record, I have to be cautious about overburdening him. It’s not just about the immediate matches but thinking long-term for him as a player.” Postecoglou’s comments highlight the delicate balance he faces in trying to maximize his defensive options while preventing injury setbacks that could disrupt the team’s momentum.
Adding to Tottenham’s defensive concerns is the pressure to maintain their position in the league standings, particularly as they compete for a Champions League spot. Spurs’ defensive fragility has, at times, overshadowed the team’s attacking prowess, with pundits noting that even minor injuries or suspensions have the potential to disrupt the team’s rhythm. A seasoned defender could allow Tottenham to not only protect their current backline but also rotate players more effectively, minimizing fatigue and reducing injury risks. Postecoglou has expressed his determination to address the defensive issues, recognizing that a strengthened backline will be pivotal for the team’s overall balance and consistency.
The club’s interest in bringing in a top-caliber center-back in January also aligns with Tottenham’s growing ambitions. As the team continues to evolve under Postecoglou’s guidance, they are aiming for sustained success and long-term stability, both of which require a robust and adaptable squad. With the January transfer window fast approaching, Tottenham is expected to carefully evaluate their defensive options, seeking a player who not only provides immediate support but also fits into Postecoglou’s vision for a more resilient and versatile team.
In sum, the decision to sign a new defender in January underscores Tottenham’s proactive approach to managing injuries and improving defensive stability. While Van de Ven and Romero have given Spurs a strong foundation at the back, the recent injury has highlighted the need for reliable backup. Whether it’s an experienced Premier League defender like Joe Gomez or another skilled center-back, Tottenham’s potential January addition will likely be a strategic move to protect their ambitions and support their evolving style under Postecoglou.