Tag: Tottenham Hotspur

  • Spurs goalkeeper to make debut against Newcastle – nine years after joining club

    Spurs goalkeeper to make debut against Newcastle – nine years after joining club

    Goalkeeper Brandon Austin is set to make a long-awaited Tottenham debut against Newcastle on Saturday, talkSPORT understands.

    Under-pressure manager Ange Postecoglou is without back-up goalkeeper Fraser Forster due to a sickness bug in the Tottenham camp.

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    Austin joined Spurs as a 16-year-old in 2015 after spells in Watford and Chelsea’s academiesCredit: Getty

    First-choice Guglielmo Vicario remains out with a long-term ankle injury.

    Austin joined Spurs nine years ago but has never made a competitive senior appearance in English football.

    Tottenham are without a number of players due to injury and suspension, including first-choice defenders Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero.

    Postecoglou’s men are currently 11th and in the middle of their worst league run since 2008, having failed to win any of their last three matches.

    Newcastle, meanwhile, have won their last four top-flight fixtures by an aggregate score of 13-0, with striker Alexander Isak in red-hot form.

    Austin spent time on loan at Danish club Viborg FF in 2019 and MLS side Orlando City in 2021.

    The 25-year-old goalkeeper signed a new long-term contract with Tottenham in May 2024 and it was expected he would become second-choice behind Vicario.

    Austin is known to be gifted with the ball at his feet, having made 78 appearances for Tottenham’s various youth teams.

    Although Forster is unwell, question marks about his suitability to Spurs’ style have come up in Vicario’s absence, with Tottenham conceding 15 goals in their last seven outings.

    Against Manchester United in the 4-3 League Cup win, Forster was at fault for two goals, but has retained his manager’s backing.

    Forster is less comfortable playing out from the back as is Spurs' style

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    Forster is less comfortable playing out from the back as is Spurs’ styleCredit: Getty

    Postecoglou is said to be eyeing a move for Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone this month as Spurs desperately seek cover between the sticks.

    talkSPORT understands Tottenham are also considering a January swoop for AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori.

    Newcastle, West Ham and Brentford are also keen on the former Chelsea centre-back amid his recent struggles in Italy.

    Speaking on Friday, under-pressure Postecoglou said: “It’s not a matter of pushing but I think the club are working hard to try and sort of get some help for the playing group and it’s no secret, we need to bolster our numbers up a little bit. January is not an easy month.

    “We understand it’s not an easy time to bring people in particularly quickly. At the same time we still want to make sure we do what we think is the best thing for us rather than sort of just, you know, panic and bring people in who aren’t going to be a suitable fit.

    “They are not having New Year parties, they are out there working trying to improve our situation and they’ll continue to do so.”

    Austin has captained Spurs at youth level

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    Austin has captained Spurs at youth levelCredit: Getty

    Tottenham vs Newcastle is live on talkSPORT at 12.30 on Saturday.

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  • ‘Big call’ – Huge Heung-Min Son contract claim made by ex-Premier League striker

    ‘Big call’ – Huge Heung-Min Son contract claim made by ex-Premier League striker

    Tottenham have been told to make a huge decision on the future of club captain Heung-Min Son.

    The South Korean superstar is coming to the end of his current contract in north London but is currently in sporadic form as Spurs struggle.

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    Son is not as prolific, or as effective, as he once was and looked toothless against Nottingham ForesCredit: Getty

    Defensive injury issues have hampered Ange Postecloglou’s team in the Premier League.

    They have, though, reached the League Cup semi-finals where they will face Liverpool, and are well-placed in the Europa League too.

    Son has 13 goal contributions 21 appearances across all competitions but wasn’t anywhere near his usual self against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.

    That form has led former Premier League striker Tony Cascarino to query if the 32-year-old will get the new deal he wants.

    And he believes there is a chance the next five months could be his last in north London, insisting sometimes difficult decision need to be made.

    He told talkSPORT: “I don’t think Son will stay at Spurs. No, I don’t. I think it’s one of them that you’ve got to make a big call on as well.

    “He’s been brilliant for them over the years, but it’s time to move on in football sometimes.”

    Tottenham do have the option to extend the South Korean’s deal but talks are ongoing over a renewal.

    However, Cascarino is insistent it would take a big resurgence in form for Spurs to pull the trigger on a new deal.

    He added: “He will survive, or they would definitely keep him, if he had a second part of the season that was superb.

    Son is into his second season as captain in north London

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    Son is into his second season as captain in north LondonCredit: Getty

    “If he has that season where it hasn’t really worked to now, and then he goes and gets 15 or 12 goals in the second part of the season, plays well, then Tottenham will probably use that option.

    “But as it is today, I think it’s more likely that he could go.”

    Son, now the club’s all-time top assister in Premier League history, is not the only top-flight star in this predicament.

    Kevin De Bruyne is in the same bout but Cascarino believes Man City’s decision about retaining the Belgian playmaker relies on how fit he is.

    He added: “It’s another big call for Manchester City, because if it’s a fit Kevin De Bruyne, then you’ve still got one hell of a talent. He still won’t lose his ability to pass the ball.

    “But they look a team a little bit like Manchester United. They’re running out of legs on the pitch in many different positions.”

    De Bruyne has been linked with a move to MLS in recent weeks

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    De Bruyne has been linked with a move to MLS in recent weeksCredit: Getty

    Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood is also out of contract in the summer – and has been in fine form.

    Cascarino, though, believes he should easily be able to claim a new contract from his current employers.

    He added: “I think Chris Wood, Forest will try and give him another year, because he doesn’t rely on pace.

    “You’re talking about a player that never has to think about, ‘Oh, he’s lost half a yard’. It doesn’t matter if Chris Wood loses half a yard.

    “If you’ve got Anthony Elanga one side and Callum Hudson-Odoi the other, and Morgan Gibbs-White joining him, and Elliot Anderson joining him as well, you don’t really need to worry about that.

    “He could do another year, no problem. So I don’t see that as an issue.”

    Simon Jordan criticises Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou for his attitude towards the media

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  • Rodrigo Bentancur handed lengthy ban and will miss Tottenham’s nightmare run

    Rodrigo Bentancur handed lengthy ban and will miss Tottenham’s nightmare run

    Rodrigo Bentancur has been hit with a seven-match ban for making a racial slur, the FA have confirmed.

    The Tottenham star has also been handed a £100,000 fine.

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    Bentancur has been hit with a big suspension and fineCredit: Getty

    Bentancur was filmed on Uruguayan TV making derogatory remarks about South Koreans in a reply to a question about Spurs captain Son Heung-min.

    The FA confirmed the lengthy suspension ahead of Spurs’ clash with Manchester City in their first game back after the international break.

    An FA statement read: “An independent Regulatory Commission has imposed a seven-match suspension and £100,000 fine on Rodrigo Bentancur for a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to a media interview. 
     
    “It was alleged that the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder breached FA Rule E3.1 as he acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or brought the game into disrepute. It was further alleged that this constitutes an “aggravated breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference – whether express or implied – to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin. 

    “Rodrigo Bentancur denied this charge, but the independent Regulatory Commission found it to be proven and imposed his sanctions following a hearing. Its written reasons for these decisions can be seen below.”

    It will rule Bentancus out of several key fixtures including a home EFL Cup quarter final versus Manchester United.

    But he will still be eligible to play in the Europa League during the ban.

    After the remark attracted immediate backlash on social media, Bentancur quickly issued an apology to his teammate.

    “Sonny brother,” Bentancur wrote on Instagram.

    “I apologise to you for what happened, it was just a very bad joke.

    “You know I love you and I would never disrespect you or hurt you or anyone else! I love you, brother!”

    Son confirmed Bentancur immediately apologised to him after making a racist remark on TV

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    Son confirmed Bentancur immediately apologised to him after making a racist remark on TVCredit: Getty

    Five days later, Son revealed he had spoken with Bentancur and accepted his teammate’s apology.

    “I’ve spoken with Lolo (Bentancur),” Son said in a post on Instagram.

    “He made a mistake, he knows this and has apologised. Lolo would not mean to ever intentionally say something offensive. We are brothers and nothing has changed at all.

    “We’re past this, we’re united, and we will be back together in pre-season to fight for our club as one.”

    The 27-year-old has featured in all but two of Tottenham’s 17 fixtures across all competitions this season, meaning he will be a massive loss for Ange Postecoglou over the seven-game stretch.

    In Bentacur’s absence, Yves Bissouma looms as the likeliest replacement in the defensive midfield role.

    The news will come as a big blow to Ange Postecoglou

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    The news will come as a big blow to Ange PostecoglouCredit: Getty

    With Bissouma’s pending elevation to the starting line-up, it could spark a domino-like effect in Postecoglou’s thinking.

    Teenage talent Archie Gray stands a chance of becoming the back-up defensive midfield option having already played in the position this season.

    Although the versatile 18-year-old has largely played at right-back when he has featured this term, he is no stranger to that role as he featured in the role for Leeds United in the Championship last term.

    However, if Postecoglou views Gray as the back-up defensive midfielder, it places Djed Spence as the next option at right-back should Pedro Porro be injured.

    Spence returned to the matchday squad after recovering from a groin injury and was on the bench for Tottenham’s 2-1 loss to Ipswich last Sunday.

    Games Bentancur will miss

    • Man City (a)
    • Fulham (h)
    • Bournemouth (a)
    • Chelsea (h)
    • Southampton (a)
    • Man United (h) – Carabao Cup
    • Liverpool (h)

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  • Arsenal legend backs Harry Kane and slams ‘ridiculous’ German media criticism

    Arsenal legend backs Harry Kane and slams ‘ridiculous’ German media criticism

    Martin Keown has put his Arsenal allegiances aside to back Tottenham legend Harry Kane following scathing criticism from German media.

    The England captain has 54 goals in 53 appearances for Bayern Munich but has been hounded over his recent performances, with Bild lambasting his goalless displays against Bayer Leverkusen and Aston Villa.

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    Kane was branded -‘invisible’ and a ‘ghost’ as Bayern Munich lost to Aston Villa in the Champions LeagueCredit: Getty

    Following the 1-0 loss to Villa in the Champions League on Wednesday Bild wrote: “The England star was hardly seen and missed a great header chance to equalise shortly before the end.

    “When he returned home [to England], the captain of the English national team remained invisible. Just as he did against Leverkusen. [He] only managed his only shot on goal seconds before the final whistle.”

    Despite his strong attachment to north London rivals Arsenal, Gunners legend Keown was quick to defend Kane when discussing his treatment in the German press with Jim White and Troy Deeney.

    He said on the White and Jordan show: “I think the German media are having an absolute laugh to be criticising him after what he’s done for Bayern since he’s been there. He isn’t the reason they didn’t win the Bundesliga last year. 

    “He’s been magnificent. He could’ve got them back into the game against Villa right at the end but Emi Martinez made a great save.

    “I find it ridiculous. If he was German he would be lauded and we’d be talking about him for years to come, but in Germany for some reason they want to criticise him. It’s out of order.

    “54 goals in 53 games is not someone who is not doing it.”

    It has been an unusual time in Germany for Kane – despite netting 36 goals in his debut season it wasn’t enough for Munich, whose streak of 11 successive Bundesliga titles was broken in invincible fashion by Bayer Leverkusen.

    That led into a difficult Euros for the England captain, who – despite helping the Three Lions to the final – struggled to link up with his teammates in a way fans had been accustomed to during his iconic career at Spurs.

    Keown is not happy with the German media's treatment of the England and former Tottenham star

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    Keown is not happy with the German media’s treatment of the England and former Tottenham starCredit: talkSPORT
    Kane has scored goals for fun since moving to Bayern - but it has not saved him from criticism from the local press

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    Kane has scored goals for fun since moving to Bayern – but it has not saved him from criticism from the local pressCredit: Getty

    When asked about his performances over the summer Keown said: “I think it’s a different matter. He wasn’t at his best and maybe in reflection Gareth Southgate could’ve taken him off sooner. 

    “Maybe not start him in the last game when Ollie Watkins had already shown he was a worthy starter and for some reason Harry couldn’t find the form in that tournament.

    “His performances for Bayern Munich have been top draw.”

    See the breakdown of how much Harry Kane earns at Bayern Munich by the second!

    Simply put, Kane is a goal machine who has continued to fire under former Burnley boss Vincent Kompany, scoring ten in eight appearances in all competitions this season – including four goals against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League.

    That match saw the 31-year-old overtake Wayne Rooney as the highest English scorer in Champions League history.

    In September, Bayern got off to a flying start with 20 goals scored in one week across three games. Eight of those came from Kane.

    People were full of praise for Bayern and the forward then, but as we know football narratives change quickly.

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  • Maddison snubbed but only one England No.10 has better record this season

    Maddison snubbed but only one England No.10 has better record this season

    James Maddison will be disappointed after being left out of Lee Carsley’s latest England squad having suggested he feels as sharp as Erling Haaland.

    The Tottenham midfielder hasn’t played a game for the Three Lions since 2023 and was again snubbed for upcoming Nations League games against Greece and the Republic of Ireland – 24 hours after staking his claim for a spot in the team.

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    Maddison has been left out of the England squad – just a day after declaring his hopes to be selectedCredit: Getty

    Despite showing his creativity and class at club level for Leicester and now Tottenham, Maddison’s place in the England set-up has been sporadic.

    Making his debut in 2019, three years then passed until his next call-up, which came at the 2022 World Cup. Maddison didn’t make an appearance in Qatar.

    He was then selected for the provisional Euro 2024 squad, but was cut from the final group – a decision he said was ‘devastating’. 

    In total, Maddison has earned only seven England caps in five years, and it appears whatever reason it was that Gareth Southgate didn’t select him has now been passed to his successor.

    That’s despite the player and new Three Lions interim boss going quite a way back – having worked together at Coventry City and with the England Under-21s.

    Speaking before Thursday’s squad announcement, Maddison said in a Tottenham press conference: “I want to be in the England squad, every player does. 

    “I know Lee Carsley well. I feel really fit, maybe the fittest I’ve ever been. I had the summer off and it’s been said about Erling Haaland and how sharp he’s come back feeling, and I feel confident and alive.

    “I always want to prove the doubters wrong and that’s where I get my hunger from.”

    This latest snub will surprise more than a few supporters, especially considering the 27-year-old has started the 2024/25 season well with one goal and two assists in the Premier League.

    Unfortunately he faces tough competition for the No.10 position with Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Morgan Gibbs-White being called up over him.

    There is fierce competition for the No.10 spot - with on-fire Palmer the leading contender

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    There is fierce competition for the No.10 spot – with on-fire Palmer the leading contenderCredit: Getty
    Maddison is back in form for Tottenham after a poor end to the last season - but he's still missed out on an England spot

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    Maddison is back in form for Tottenham after a poor end to the last season – but he’s still missed out on an England spot

    When asked about the difficulty of fitting in so many talented players, Carsley replied: “It’s a challenge with the squad that we’ve got, we’ve got so many talented players.

    “We always look at finding the right balance, who complements who in terms of the way that we play. I try not to get too caught up in positions, it’s more the attributes and the way we can potentially attack the opposition.”

    Palmer is hot off becoming the first player ever to score four goals in the first half of a Premier League match.

    Aaron Lennon Backs Tottenham To Improve After Impressive Displays From James Maddison and Dominic Solanke

    The Chelsea attacker withdrew from the previous team to rehabilitate an injury but he will return as a key player for the senior squad in similar fashion to his U21s European campaign in which he assisted the winner against Spain to lift the trophy.

    He is the talk of the town right now as Jamie Carragher named him the current best player in the English top flight.

    Phil Foden, last season’s PFA Player of the Year, was also selected to face Ireland and Finland but was unavailable due to illness, so it will be interesting to discover how he is utilised in Carsley’s new system. 

    Despite a lack of game time for Manchester City so far this season, and a poor Euros campaign, he remains one of England’s best talents.

    Has made just three appearances and is yet to start a game in the Premier League for Man City this season

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    Has made just three appearances and is yet to start a game in the Premier League for Man City this seasonCredit: Getty
    Bellingham was England's hero at the Euros and is back in the team despite his quiet start to the season for Real Madrid

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    Bellingham was England’s hero at the Euros and is back in the team despite his quiet start to the season for Real MadridCredit: Getty

    Jack Grealish was also recalled. Many would consider him a left winger but he started as The Three Lions’ No.10 in the interim manager’s first game against Ireland. The City star scored in the 26th minute to double the score at 2-0.

    When asked if Grealish would be playing if England’s star midfielders were fit after the Ireland match, Carsley said: “I’m not sure. Maybe. I’d try and find a way of getting Jack in the team.

    “I’m not sure where he’d play, but I think a player of Jack’s talent we have to try and find him a place. We have to be creative at times.”

    He was then substituted for Morgan Gibbs-White who continues to impress with Nottingham Forest, only losing once in the league this campaign. Not to mention his several appearances for the Young Lions with Carsley as manager.

    Jude Bellingham was also injured last month but has made his way back into the 26-man squad. 

    This season with the introduction of Kylian Mbappe, Bellingham has been playing a deeper role as more of a conventional midfielder which is a reason behind his lack of goals – he is yet to find the net this term – compared to last campaign.

    However, his heroics in the Euros must not be forgotten, saving England from a last 16 exit with a bicycle kick against Slovakia. He is a crucial goal threat.

    While all of these players merit their place, it’s worth pointing out Maddison has been more productive than them all, other than Palmer.

    Here's how Maddison's Premier League stats look compared to his competitors for an England midfield slot

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    Here’s how Maddison’s Premier League stats look compared to his competitors for an England midfield slot

    Nevertheless, it appears the jury is out for Carsley’s thoughts on Maddison, although his club manager Ange Postecoglou remains full of praise for the Englishman.

    “I think Madders has been outstanding so far this year – his form from the first game has been really strong physically,” said the Tottenham boss.

    “I’ve said a few times that he’s back at the levels where he can play in the manner he wants to and do everything he wants in a game. 

    “In the last two or three weeks he’s had an effect on goals and assists as well, which always gets highlighted with players in his position, but his general play has been outstanding.”

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  • Spurs seek rare away win against under-fire Ten Hag – predicted line-ups

    Spurs seek rare away win against under-fire Ten Hag – predicted line-ups

    Manchester United welcome Tottenham for a Premier League encounter between two teams who are both seeking a big result.

    The Red Devils have won just two of their opening five league games, while Spurs are yet to taste victory on the road.

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    Man United wasted several chances in their recent 0-0 draw against Crystal PalaceCredit: Getty

    So, this is an important fixture for both, with Erik ten Hag and Ange Postecoglou hoping their team will be in the Champions League places by the end of the campaign.

    However, if that is to be the case, there needs to be some major improvement.

    Tottenham have struggled to be clinical in front of goal at times, while the Red Devils have looked disorganised against the better teams so far.

    Read more on Premier League

    Manchester United vs Tottenham: Dom’s off the mark

    In the build-up to Tottenham’s 3-1 win over Brentford last weekend, new £65million man Dominic Solanke hadn’t scored.

    Of course, he missed a couple of games through injury, while he didn’t get a sniff in the north London derby.

    So when he saw James Maddison‘s saved shot fall to his feet, he must have been relieved to tap in his first of what should be many Spurs goals.

    It’s always the same for any new striker – they just want to get off the mark, and he’s done that now.

    And he followed it up with another goal in Europe on Thursday, teeing him up for three in a row this weekend.

    Solanke must have felt pure relief when he tapped in his first Spurs goal

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    Solanke must have felt pure relief when he tapped in his first Spurs goalCredit: Getty
    Furious Erik ten Hag Slams Jamie Redknapp Over Marcus Rashford Comments
    • Manchester United have won 24 Premier League home games against Tottenham – only Arsenal have beaten an opponent more often at home in the competition’s history (25 vs Everton).
    • Manchester United have lost seven of their last 19 Premier League home games (W9 D3), including a 3-0 loss to Liverpool in their last such match. They had been unbeaten in 20 at Old Trafford before this current run (W17 D3).
    • After a run of four straight Premier League defeats against Manchester United between 2021 and 2022, Tottenham are now unbeaten in their last three against them in the league (W1 D2).

    Manchester United vs Tottenham: Date and how to follow

    This Premier League game takes place on Sunday, September 29.

    Kick-off at Old Trafford is scheduled for 4:30pm.

    The match will be broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League.

    Sky Go customers can also stream the action through their laptops and mobile devices.

    Alternatively, a NOW TV pass can be purchased.

    talkSPORT will have updates from the red half of Manchester throughout, and talkSPORT.com will have coverage on our dedicated Premier League blog.

    To tune in to talkSPORT through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

    You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

    Tottenham have struggled against the better teams for a while now

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    Tottenham have struggled against the better teams for a while nowCredit: Getty
    • Since picking up 14 points from their first six Premier League away games under Ange Postecoglou (W4 D2 L0), Tottenham have picked up just a further 14 points from their last 15 on the road (W3 D5 L7). Indeed, among ever present sides over the last two seasons, no side has won fewer Premier League away games since the start of November than Spurs (3).
    • Since the start of last season, only Manchester City (31) have gained more points from losing positions in the Premier League than Tottenham (28), with Spurs coming from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 last time out.
    • Manchester United have kept four clean sheets in their last six Premier League games, which is more than they had in their previous 24 combined (3). However, they’ve lost both games in which they’ve conceded during this run (W3 D1).

    Manchester United vs Tottenham: Team news and predicted line-ups

    United’s injury problems are starting to ease, but they are still without a few important players.

    Luke Shaw isn’t expected back until after the international break, while Tyrell Malacia is still out.

    They join Leny Yorro and Victor Lindelof on the sidelines.

    Ten Hag has a few players who are nailed-on starters – Andre Onana, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.

    Martinez should be partnered by Matthijs de Ligt, with Dalot at left-back and Noussair Mazraoui at right-back.

    Christian Eriksen has partnered Mainoo in recent games, but given Tottenham’s style, Manuel Ugarte could make his first Premier League start.

    Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho are competing for a place on the left, but the England international is looking better, so should get the nod.

    Amad Diallo will be on the right, and then up front, there is a choice between Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund.

    Hojlund should start his first league game of the season after injury

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    Hojlund should start his first league game of the season after injury

    For Spurs, Richarlison remains out, and Wilson Odobert is also injured, but bar those, Posteocoglou has a full squad to choose from.

    Guglielmo Vicario, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie, Maddison and Solanke will start.

    In midfield, Spurs have plenty of options, but given the problems Liverpool caused United in the middle of the park, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur.

    On the right, there will be a battle between Brennan Johnson and Dejan Kulusevski, but the Swede’s guile and creativity should see him get the nod.

    Heung-min Son is a slight doubt after picking up an injury in midweek, but Postecoglou is hopeful that he’ll be fit.

    Tottenham's XI is very steady with only a few positions up for grabs

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    Tottenham’s XI is very steady with only a few positions up for grabs
    • Manchester United have the third highest xG in the Premier League this season (9.6) but have scored just five goals – only Southampton have a bigger negative difference between their goals (2) and expected goals (7.1) so far this term.
    • As a team, only Liverpool players (282) have made more off the ball runs into the opposition’s box than Tottenham’s (263) in the Premier League this season. For individual players, Tottenham’s Son Heung-Min (54) and Dejan Kulusevski (43) rank joint first and joint third for this respectively.
    • Man Utd’s Bruno Fernandes has had more shots without scoring than any other Premier League player this season (17). Meanwhile, only Cameron Archer (2.3) and Evanilson (2) have amassed a higher xG without finding the net so far than Fernandes (1.9).
    • Tottenham’s Son Heung-Min has created more chances from open play than any other player in the Premier League this season (13). He’s also had a hand in five goals in his last seven league appearances against Manchester United, scoring four and assisting one.

    Man United vs Tottenham: What has been said?

    Ahead of the game, Postecoglou was asked whether he will be trying to put the fact Ten Hag is under pressure into his game plan.

    However, he wasn’t entertaining the question…

    “I don’t mate. There’s always some manager under pressure,” he said.

    “I think it’s must be one of those spinning boards with all our faces on it and whatever it lands on he cops it for a week or two.

    “I think Erik in a real tough job has done really well. He keeps mentioning he’s won two trophies and he has mate. I don’t think that’s insignificant.

    “People keep telling me that’s what I have to do, but it’s obviously not all you have to do, because even when you do that, there’s more.

    “There’s always more and I think he’s done a great job in a difficult job. At Old Trafford, it’s tough there.

    “You look at their record and irrespective of the managers, it’s still a fairly compelling record and they’ve got some real quality players.

    “We had a really good game there last year. It was 2-2 and a cracking game. One we’re going to be ready for.”

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  • Why is Newcastle vs Tottenham kicking off at 1:30pm this weekend?

    Why is Newcastle vs Tottenham kicking off at 1:30pm this weekend?

    Newcastle’s big game against Tottenham this weekend is set to start at an odd time.

    The Magpies and Spurs are set to come head-to-head on Sunday, with both clubs aiming for top-four finishes this year, but the game isn’t going to start at a normal time.

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    Newcastle thrashed Tottenham 4-0 in this same fixture last seasonCredit: Getty

    Top-flight matches scheduled on Sundays normally start at either 2pm or 4:30pm, but this one, along with Chelsea‘s home tie against Crystal Palace, is set to start at 1:30pm.

    But why is that the case?

    Why is Newcastle vs Tottenham starting at 1:30pm?

    Manchester United‘s match against Liverpool on the same day has been moved from a 4:30pm kick-off to a 4pm time.

    Read more on Premier League

    This was announced in July when the first TV selections were made public.

    Man United games against Liverpool have been moved in the past due to police requests.

    Sometimes, these are specified in club statements, and other times, they aren’t.

    This time, nothing has been said from Liverpool or Man United about their match starting 30 minutes earlier.

    But because it is starting earlier, it means this match has also been moved because it has been picked for TV broadcast as well.

    The clash at St James’ Park is set to be screened on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League.

    As with the match at Old Trafford, this is may be a slight inconvenience for fans, and Spurs supporters will have to get earlier transport for the long journey to the north east.

    This is usually a game that is full of goals, so fans from both sides will likely forgive the slight change to their routine if it’s another entertaining spectacle.

    Ange Postecoglou will want to see a much improved showing from his side from their last visit to St James' Park

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    Ange Postecoglou will want to see a much improved showing from his side from their last visit to St James’ ParkCredit: Getty
    Newcastle have four points from their first two league matches

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    Newcastle have four points from their first two league matchesCredit: Getty
    Aaron Lennon believes Spurs are ‘miles away’ from the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal

    Newcastle vs Tottenham: Date and how to follow

    This Premier League game is set to take place on Sunday, September 1.

    Kick-off at St James’ Park is scheduled for 1:30pm.

    The match will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League.

    Sky Go customers will be able to tune in via their laptops and mobile devices.

    Alternatively, fans can tune in via NOW TV, with options starting from £14.99 for a one-day pass, £26 per month for a year and £34.99 for a rolling monthly contract.

    talkSPORT will have updates throughout the afternoon, and talkSPORT.com will updates on our live Premier League blog.

    To tune in to talkSPORT through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

    You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

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  • Bissouma reveals Spurs star’s imminent exit before club’s official announcement

    Bissouma reveals Spurs star’s imminent exit before club’s official announcement

    Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma appears to have let slip about Emerson Royal’s exit from the club, before an official announcement has been made.

    Royal has been the subject of heavy interest from Serie A giants AC Milan as new boss Paulo Fonseca shapes his squad ahead of the upcoming season.

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    Emerson Royal is inching closer towards leaving SpursCredit: Getty

    talkSPORT understands a deal for Royal is at an advanced stage but talks remain ongoing, despite Italian reports stating the Brazilian’s deal worth £12.8million [€15m] plus bonuses is done.

    Although nothing has been made official, a Snapchat video from Bissouma appears to indicate it is not far off.

    The Mali international is seen wearing his Spurs training kit while Emerson sports a red shirt as the two share a lengthy secret handshake before embracing in a tight hug.

    At the bottom of the video, Bissouma wrote: “One of the best guy (sic) I’ve ever seen in my life all the best there brother I love you I’ll come see u soon there.”

    Royal joined Tottenham from LaLiga heavyweights Barcelona in 2021 for £25.8m [€30m] following his impressive two-year spell on loan at Real Betis.

    The 25-year-old went on to make 101 appearances for the north London outfit, scoring four goals and registering two assists in that time.

    Royal also has ten caps for Brazil, with the most recent coming in a 1-0 loss to Argentina in which he started.

    A right-back by trade, Royal was forced to deputise at left-back and centre-back on several occasions last season amid Tottenham’s defensive injury crisis.

    Unfortunately for Royal, he was never Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou’s first choice at right-back, with the Aussie preferring Pedro Porro instead.

    Tottenham had the chance to part ways with Royal in the January window as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr made a £21m [€25m] bid.

    Tottenham fans dig up old video which shows that Dominic Solanke is an Arsenal fan
    Bissouma seemingly let slip Royal's exit is imminent

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    Bissouma seemingly let slip Royal’s exit is imminent
    Royal struggled to break into Tottenham's starting team under Postecoglou

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    Royal struggled to break into Tottenham’s starting team under PostecoglouCredit: Getty

    However, talkSPORT understood the club rejected Al Nassr’s advances.

    Royal went on to feature in only six more Premier League games after the January window had shut, with four of those being starts.

    He’ll no doubt anticipate more playing time at Milan, who finished second in Serie A but only made it to the quarter-final in the Coppa Italia and Europa League.

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  • Spurs to present Harry Kane with special gift one year after crushing £82m exit

    Spurs to present Harry Kane with special gift one year after crushing £82m exit

    Bayern Munich duo Harry Kane and Eric Dier will be honoured by Tottenham Hotspur ahead of a friendly between the two clubs.

    Tottenham will host the German giants on Saturday as Ange Postecoglou‘s side finalise preparations for the 24/25 Premier League campaign.

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    Kane and Dier will face their former club in a friendlyCredit: Getty

    However, the main storyline is undoubtedly the return of Kane and Dier to north London for the first time since their departures last season.

    The duo will be presented with a commemorative gift by legendary Tottenham defender Ledley King prior to the contest, with the ceremony to take place 15 minutes before kick-off at 5:30pm.

    “We have not previously had the opportunity to bid farewell to two players who have made such a significant contribution to our Club in recent years,” a Tottenham statement read.

    Tottenham also encouraged fans to arrive early and be in their seats to witness the ceremony take place.

    The fixture will be the second friendly between the two teams, with Bayern running out 2-1 victors over Tottenham last Saturday at the Allianz Arena.

    Dier came on in the 55th minute of that contest in place of Korean centre-back Kim Min-Jae, but Kane was not involved.

    There is also no guarantee Kane will take part in the second friendly against his old club given the lower back injury he had prior to Euro 2024.

    Kane has refused to divulge whether he went into the tournament hampered by the injury as the England skipper turned in uncharacteristically lacklustre performances throughout.

    England’s run to the final also meant Kane has returned to Bayern’s pre-season camp significantly later than his teammates, meaning he could end up taking part in just two friendlies.

    After Saturday’s friendly against Tottenham, Bayern will face Austrian outfit WSG Tirol on Tuesday before their 24/25 season officially begins with a DFB Pokal clash against second-tier side SSV Ulm 1846.

    Kane joined Bayern Munich last summer

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    Kane joined Bayern Munich last summerCredit: Getty
    Dier made 20 appearances for Bayern last season

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    Dier made 20 appearances for Bayern last seasonCredit: Getty

    Kane moved to Bayern for an eye-watering £82million the day before Tottenham took on Brentford in its 23/24 Premier League opener.

    The 31-year-old also holds the honour of being Tottenham’s record goal scorer with 280 from 435 appearances.

    Dier made four appearances for Tottenham under Postecoglou before he departed to the Bundesliga heavyweights in the January window.

    The duo made a combined 800 appearances for Tottenham but were unable to help the club lift its first trophy since the 2008 League Cup.

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  • Tottenham urged to sign Toney rather than Solanke to bolster attacking options

    Tottenham urged to sign Toney rather than Solanke to bolster attacking options

    Tottenham have been urged to ditch their plans to sign Dominic Solanke in favour of Brentford striker Ivan Toney.

    The north London club are stepping up their search for a new frontman, with Solanke linked as a top target amid doubts over the future of current No.9 Richarlison.

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    Dominic Solanke is a prime target for Tottenham boss Ange PostecoglouCredit: Getty

    Spurs hope to cherry pick the 26-year-old from Bournemouth ahead of next season’s assault on the Premier League and Europa League.

    Solanke earned rave reviews last season after boasting his best top-flight numbers of 19 goals in 38 league games.

    Available goalscorers are at a premium, as Spurs know only too well, and their efforts to replace Harry Kane has led them to the Bournemouth star.

    However, former Watford and Birmingham striker Troy Deeney believes Tottenham should instead turn their attention to England star Ivan Toney, who continues to angle for a move away from Brentford.

    Deeney claims Toney would be a better fit for Ange Postecoglou’s side, believing Solanke would be more suited to Spurs’ arch rivals Arsenal, who are also searching for extra ammunition as they look to fight Manchester City for the title again.

    “I think Solanke works better at somewhere like Arsenal where he has to be on the end of something,” Deeney told talkSPORT.

    “If you’re going to spend £65million which is the reported fee, I would expect them [Tottenham] to go for Toney, if they can get him.

    “Test the water with Brentford and leave the offer on the table for a week.”

    Spells at Chelsea and Liverpool preceded Solanke’s move to the Vitality Stadium in 2019, a switch that helped the striker reignite his career after largely playing bit-part roles.

    Deeney is complimentary of Solanke’s recent rise but questions whether the striker possesses the killer instinct to succeed at the highest level.

    Postecoglou has pinpointed Solanke as the man to lead Spurs' attack next season

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    Postecoglou has pinpointed Solanke as the man to lead Spurs’ attack next seasonCredit: Getty
    Deeney has urged Spurs to turn their attention to Ivan Toney instead

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    Deeney has urged Spurs to turn their attention to Ivan Toney insteadCredit: talkSPORT
    Richarlison has been subject of interest from Saudi Arabia and Spurs could offload the Brazilian to fund a move for Solanke

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    Richarlison has been subject of interest from Saudi Arabia and Spurs could offload the Brazilian to fund a move for SolankeCredit: AFP

    “Dominic is good,” Deeney added. “He’s someone who has learned the hard way in terms of being at Liverpool then coming away.

    “But whenever I watch Dominic and I think he’s a good player, I still don’t see the killer in him. I know he’s scored a lot of goals but I don’t go ‘it’s everything for him to score a goal’.”

    Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in re-signing their academy graduate, but Tottenham are said to currently lead the chase.

    Jamie O’Hara backs Tottenham signing Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth and thinks he’s an instant upgrade on Richarlison

    Spurs are looking at ways to lower the transfer fee with the possibility of tempting the Cherries with a players-plus-cash offer.

    However, their hopes of a cut-price offer is likely to be rebuffed with Liverpool set to land 20 percent of the fee due to a sell-on clause inserted into the deal which saw Solanke leave Anfield for Bournemouth.

    That could see the Reds net a whopping £13m should Tottenham meet the player’s £65m release clause.

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