Tottenham Hotspur Aim to Bounce Back Against Bournemouth as Injury Updates Emerge
Tottenham Hotspur will be determined to return to winning ways when they host AFC Bournemouth in a crucial Premier League clash on Sunday. After a string of inconsistent performances, Spurs are under pressure to regain momentum, particularly following back-to-back defeats. The latest setback came in the Europa League on Thursday night, where they suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to AZ Alkmaar, further denting their confidence.
Despite recent struggles, manager Ange Postecoglou remains optimistic about Tottenham’s league form. The Australian coach emphasized that, although results have fluctuated, there have been positive aspects to their performances in domestic competition. Speaking ahead of the Bournemouth fixture, he acknowledged the need for his team to rediscover their rhythm and push forward.
Injury Updates: Romero and Van de Ven Nearing a Return
One of the key talking points ahead of Sunday’s game is the injury status of several important players. Postecoglou provided a detailed update on Friday, offering some encouraging news regarding his defensive options.
Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, who were both in contention to feature against AZ Alkmaar, were ultimately left out of the squad due to concerns over the playing conditions. The Spurs boss explained that he opted against taking unnecessary risks with the duo, prioritizing their long-term fitness over an immediate return. However, their comeback is imminent, and there is a strong possibility that they will be available for selection against Bournemouth.
“A couple of extra days of fitness, training, and recovery should hopefully put both of them in line to feature,” Postecoglou stated, indicating that Spurs could receive a major boost at the back.
Dominic Solanke Injury Concern, But No Major Issue
Tottenham fans also had a scare when striker Dominic Solanke appeared to pick up a knock during the AZ Alkmaar defeat. Having recently returned from a lengthy injury lay-off, there were fears that the forward might be sidelined again. However, Postecoglou moved to ease concerns, confirming that Solanke’s issue was not serious.
“It’s too early to tell, but with Dom, I think he just took a knee to the backside, so it’s probably a bit sore,” Postecoglou explained. “It’s a knock, so hopefully, it settles down quickly.”
This update will come as a relief for Spurs supporters, as Solanke’s presence in attack has been crucial, particularly with the team struggling to convert chances in recent games.
Ben Davies Making Progress in Training
Another positive development for Spurs is the potential return of Ben Davies. The experienced defender has been sidelined but has made significant progress in training. Postecoglou acknowledged that Davies is nearing full fitness and could be in contention for Sunday’s game, depending on how he fares in the next couple of days.
“He’s training at the moment, so we’ll see,” said the Spurs boss. “He’s definitely progressed, and he feels good. Let’s see how things go over the next 24 to 48 hours. He has a chance, but we’ll see how he responds.”
Must-Win Game for Tottenham as Bournemouth Chase Europe
Spurs are enduring a tough spell, having lost four of their last five matches across all competitions. Their inconsistent performances have raised concerns, and the visit of Bournemouth presents a critical opportunity to regain their footing. However, the Cherries will not be easy opponents. Sitting seventh in the Premier League table, Bournemouth are in the mix for a European qualification spot and have shown resilience under Andoni Iraola.
With the second leg of their Europa League tie against AZ Alkmaar looming next week, Postecoglou faces a balancing act in squad selection. He will need to manage his players carefully to ensure they are fresh for the midweek clash while also fielding a strong enough side to secure a much-needed victory in the league.
The potential returns of Romero, Van de Ven, and Davies could provide Spurs with a timely defensive boost. Meanwhile, the hope that Solanke’s knock is not serious means Tottenham could have their attacking options intact.
As they prepare for a crucial week in their season, Tottenham will be eager to put their recent struggles behind them and deliver a statement performance against Bournemouth.
FANS CALLS FOR PRAYER ON BOURNEMOUTH AS THEY WILL BE DESTROYED BY SPURS AFTER NEW ANGE POSTECOGLOU’S DECLARATION
