Ange Postecoglou has provided clarity on the availability of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven ahead of Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming clash against Bournemouth, while also shedding light on his decision to omit the defensive duo from the first-leg encounter against AZ Alkmaar.
Both Romero and Van de Ven traveled to the Netherlands as part of Spurs’ squad for the Europa Conference League quarterfinal first leg. However, despite their presence on the bench, neither was introduced into the game, as Tottenham fell to a 1-0 defeat at the AFAS Stadium. Postecoglou has now elaborated on why he chose not to field his first-choice central defenders that evening, citing concerns over the playing surface and potential injury risks.
Postecoglou Explains Decision to Rest Key Defenders
Speaking ahead of Spurs’ Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, Postecoglou once again addressed the situation surrounding Romero and Van de Ven, explaining that his approach was heavily influenced by the medical team’s guidance. The Australian coach emphasized that he carefully considers expert advice before making such crucial decisions.
When questioned about his cautious approach, Postecoglou told Football.London:
“Anyone who hasn’t played for the amount of time they have and given their positions, it just didn’t make sense for us. It wasn’t that kind of game where we needed central defenders—we were pushing for a goal—so in my mind, there was no point.
Look, I understand that the medical aspect has been a major talking point. Everyone is questioning every decision I make, but with the greatest respect, people on the outside probably only have about five percent of the information I do.
If people think I am making decisions based purely on gut feeling, then they don’t understand my role. I have access to all the necessary details, and if I were able to share everything—which I can’t for various reasons—people might view my choices differently. But I also accept that every decision I make right now is under scrutiny, often through the lens of skepticism.”
Romero and Van de Ven Expected to Return Soon
Despite opting to leave them on the bench in midweek, Postecoglou has suggested that both Romero and Van de Ven could be available for the second leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. When asked if they would feature in the return fixture, he responded:
“Oh, I would say so, for sure, yeah. Maybe even Sunday, we’ll see how things go.”
This statement leaves the door open for their involvement against Bournemouth, although it remains uncertain whether they will start or simply be eased back into action.
Postecoglou’s Defensive Dilemma Against Bournemouth
With Spurs trailing in their European tie and needing a strong defensive setup for the second leg, Postecoglou faces a selection dilemma for the Premier League clash with Bournemouth. If he is prioritizing the Alkmaar match, he may be reluctant to risk either Romero or Van de Ven so soon after their return from injury.
Given the physical demands of playing two matches in quick succession, it is possible that the pair could be held back for Thursday’s European decider. If that is the case, Kevin Danso and Archie Gray are expected to retain their places in the starting lineup against Andoni Iraola’s side.
Postecoglou’s cautious handling of Romero and Van de Ven underscores the importance of managing player fitness during the final stretch of the season, where Spurs are balancing domestic and European commitments. However, with key fixtures ahead, the return of his preferred central defenders could be a significant boost to Tottenham’s ambitions in both competitions.
BIG NEWS- Ange Postecoglou gives exciting and mind-blowing news about Cristian Romero and Micky Van de Ven returning to action for Spurs
