Ange Postecoglou gives Fresh update on Solanke’s injury amids his availability for important 2nd leg clash next week

The sight of Dominic Solanke grimacing in pain as he hobbled off the pitch during stoppage time was the last thing Ange Postecoglou wanted to witness. Making his long-awaited return to action after a prolonged absence since January, the striker featured in Tottenham’s 1-0 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday evening. However, his comeback was short-lived, lasting only about 20 minutes before he was forced off after a painful collision late in the match.
The injury occurred when Solanke went up to challenge AZ goalkeeper Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro for an aerial ball following a cross from the right flank. Unfortunately, the 27-year-old striker took a knee to his lower back or hip area, immediately falling to the ground in visible agony. His distress was clear as he repeatedly slammed his hand against the turf, requiring medical attention from Tottenham’s physio staff.
With Solanke unable to continue, Dane Scarlett was quickly brought on as his replacement. As the former Bournemouth striker made his way around the pitch towards the dugout, he looked uncomfortable, needing assistance from one of Tottenham’s medical staff with his arm draped around them for support. This raises serious doubts over his availability for Spurs’ upcoming Premier League fixture against Bournemouth on Sunday.

Postecoglou’s Concerns Over Solanke’s Availability

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Postecoglou admitted that he was unsure about the extent of Solanke’s injury.
“I am not even sure. It looks like a knock, but I haven’t really seen it. Hopefully, nothing too bad,” said the Australian coach.
With Tottenham’s attacking struggles evident in recent weeks, Solanke’s fitness will be a major talking point in the lead-up to the weekend clash. The ex-Chelsea youth product has proven to be an integral part of Spurs’ attacking setup, offering a physical presence, link-up play, and goal threat that Postecoglou’s side has sorely missed during his injury layoff.

Solanke’s Return Carefully Managed as Spurs Struggled in Front of Goal

Ahead of the game in the Netherlands, all eyes were on Postecoglou’s team selection, particularly regarding the involvement of Solanke, Cristian Romero, and Micky van de Ven, who were all making their return to the squad. Rather than throwing them straight into the starting XI, the Spurs boss opted for a more cautious approach, starting the trio on the bench.
With Solanke only fit enough for a brief cameo, Mathys Tel was once again deployed as Tottenham’s striker. However, it proved to be another frustrating night for the young Frenchman, as he struggled to make an impact against AZ’s well-organized defense.
Tel’s involvement was minimal, touching the ball just 14 times throughout the first half—an improvement of one touch from his previous outing against Manchester City. While his pass accuracy was perfect (10/10 completed passes), he failed to register a single meaningful attempt on goal, illustrating Tottenham’s ongoing struggles in the final third.
The game itself was largely dictated by AZ, who posed the greater attacking threat despite Lucas Bergvall’s unfortunate own goal putting them in front. Tottenham saw more possession in the second half, but they lacked creativity and cutting edge, leaving Tel isolated for long spells.
At halftime, Postecoglou made a tactical switch, replacing Tel with Wilson Odobert rather than Solanke. This prompted Son Heung-min to shift into a central role, a move that hinted at Solanke’s fitness still being carefully managed following his long spell on the sidelines.

Late Injury Overshadows Solanke’s Cameo Appearance

Solanke finally entered the fray in the 72nd minute, taking Son’s place up front as Spurs desperately searched for an equalizer. However, just like Tel before him, he struggled to make an impact due to the lack of service into the penalty area.
Just when Tottenham started delivering balls into the box, Solanke’s night took a turn for the worse. While battling for an aerial challenge, he was clattered by AZ’s goalkeeper, suffering the painful blow that forced him off prematurely.
With Spurs failing to create clear-cut chances in recent games, Postecoglou will be desperate for either Solanke or Tel to step up when the second leg of their European tie comes around next Thursday. AZ Alkmaar have already proven to be a difficult opponent, and if Tottenham want to progress to the quarterfinals, they will need a fully fit and firing Solanke to lead the charge.
For now, all Spurs fans can do is hope for positive news on their star striker’s condition ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.