Tag: Tottenham

  • Tottenham and Aston Villa ‘among seven clubs’ trying to sign Mathys Tel

    Tottenham and Aston Villa ‘among seven clubs’ trying to sign Mathys Tel

    Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel is wanted by several of Europe’s top clubs as Tottenham and Aston Villa entered the race.

    On Wednesday evening after a 3-1 win against Slovan Bratislava, Tel stayed behind for what seemed to be his final goodbye.

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    Tel was part of the U-17 French side who won a European ChampionshipCredit: Getty

    “He has said he would like to leave,” said Bayern sporting director Max Eberl. “Now we have to think about whether we will do it and what we will do.”

    With Harry Kane ahead in Vincent Kompany‘s pecking order, Tel has struggled for minutes despite showing promise.

    He scored 10 goals and assisted six times last season but he has struggled to replicate that form in recent times – and the Frenchman has not scored this season.

    Tel has only played 458 minutes this campaign and is yet to play more than 65 minutes in a game.

    Now, reports claim as many as seven clubs are trying to sign Tels before the winter transfer window closes.

    According to French publication l’Equipe, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all monitoring the 19-year-old.

    Tottenham are also in hot pursuit with technical director Johan Lange reportedly in Bavaria to convince the Frenchman of a move to north London.

    talkSPORT understands Spurs are willing to buy Tels, rather than strike a loan deal, which could give them an edge in the race.

    As reported by finance expert Stefan Borson on talkSPORT, Spurs could splash £180m and still not break financial regulations.

    Ange Postecoglou’s side continue to struggle amid a host of crippling injuries, currently sitting 15th in the Premier League.

    However, with Jhon Duran set to leave Villa in a £64m move to Al Nassr, the midlands club are also said to have enquired about Tel.

    Postecoglou has struggled to change their fortunes amid injuries

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    Postecoglou has struggled to change their fortunes amid injuriesCredit: AFP

    Villa are also sweating over the future of star striker Ollie Watkins after a shock approach from Arsenal.

    The Villans turned down the offer for the 29-year-old immediately.

    The value of the opening bid is unknown, although the Gunners are ready to return with an improved offer and are willing to pay up to £60million.

    And talkSPORT understands boyhood Arsenal fan Watkins would be open to the move if the clubs were to agree a fee.

    Unai Emery’s team has qualified for the Champions League round of 16 and will need a forward capable of scoring goals at that level like Tel has.

    They also continue to hunt down a top four position, four points off in eighth currently. 

    Mathyls Tel Next Club

    talkSPORT BET – Mathys Tel to sign for before February 3rd 2025

    Tottenham – 7/4

    Aston Villa – 11/4

    Manchester United – 7/2

    Arsenal – 6/1

    Chelsea 8/1

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  • Spurs stand by under-fire Postecoglou but here’s what could happen if he’s axed

    Spurs stand by under-fire Postecoglou but here’s what could happen if he’s axed

    Tottenham’s stance on Ange Postecoglou hasn’t changed, talkSPORT understands.

    It is understood the club’s board remain behind the embattled Australian despite a 2-1 defeat to Leicester City on Sunday.

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    Postecoglou is safe as Tottenham manager, for nowCredit: AFP

    However, should Tottenham change their minds, assistant coach Ryan Mason stepping up as the interim boss remains a strong possibility.

    Should that situation transpire, it would mark Mason’s third stint as Tottenham’s caretaker manager.

    The 33-year-old first stepped in following Jose Mourinho’s sacking in April 2021.

    Mason was thrown into the deep end as he led Tottenham in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City in just his second game in charge.

    Unfortunately the Tottenham academy product could not end the club’s trophy drought as City prevailed 1-0.

    Mason ultimately finished his first caretaker stint with a record of four wins and three losses.

    He stepped in once again after Cristian Stellini had departed following Antonio Conte’s axing in March 2023.

    Mason’s record during that spell was less successful as he won twice, drew once and lost three games.

    The 33-year-old was also heavily linked with his first full-time managerial role earlier this season at Anderlecht.

    However, the Belgian giants and Mason mutually decided not to go ahead with the appointment.

    Mason is in line for a third caretaker stint in charge of Tottenham should Postecoglou be axed

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    Mason is in line for a third caretaker stint in charge of Tottenham should Postecoglou be axedCredit: Getty

    The calls for Mason come amid Tottenham suffering their 13th loss in the league this term as the result left the north London outfit languishing in 15th, one point and one place ahead of Everton.

    What made the loss all the more humiliating was the fact Leicester were winless in their last eight league matches and had lost seven on the bounce.

    But goals from Jamie Vardy and Bilal El Khannouss after Richarlison opened the scoring for the hosts gave the Foxes a much-needed boost to snap their horror streak.

    As for Tottenham, the stats behind their recent run are damning.

    Since the beginning of December, only Southampton have lost more games (nine) than Postecoglou’s side (eight).

    However, a mitigating circumstance amid Tottenham’s dire run is the fact they have been ravaged by injuries.

    Postecoglou is under huge pressure

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    Postecoglou is under huge pressureCredit: Getty

    Key trio Guglielmo Vicario, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven remain sidelined with injuries while midfielder James Maddison was absent from Sunday’s defeat.

    Despite the ever-growing casualty ward, Tottenham picked up a midweek victory in the Europa League away to Hoffenheim to keep the boo boys at bay, at least momentarily.

    But Tottenham fans made their displeasure known following the Leicester defeat, with one supporter particularly angry as they shouted at the Australian: “You’re taking us down, we’re going down with you.”

    Former Tottenham player Jamie O’Hara also voiced his frustrations regarding the state of the team and believes the club is opting to stick with Postecoglou rather than twist because they’re ‘scared of making a change.’

    “You can’t keep sticking with a manager when you’ve got relegation form, just because of who’s going to come in,” O’Hara said on talkSPORT Breakfast.

    “That’s your job as the chairman to find a manager to come in.

    Tottenham are eight points clear of relegation, but 16 away from European places

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    Tottenham are eight points clear of relegation, but 16 away from European places

    “There’s plenty of great young managers out there, plenty of coaches all across Europe that would love to have the opportunity to manage Spurs.

    “I feel like we’re just sticking with Ange Postecoglou because we’re scared of making a change.”

    Postecoglou is under no illusions he is under the pump either.

    “I’m a football manager and I get judged on results, that is the way of the world,” Postecoglou said following the defeat.

    Tottenham will be back in front of their own fans on Thursday as they welcome Swedish side IF Elfsborg for a Europa League clash.

    Another loss could prove to be one too many for Postecoglou.

    Next Tottenham Manager Odds

    Andoni Iraola – 11/8

    Edin Terzic – 5/1

    Mauricio Pochettino – 6/1

    Marco Silva – 10/1

    Kieran McKenna – 10/1

    Thomas Frank – 10/1

    Xabi Alonso – 10/1

    *odds subject to change

    See full list of next Tottenham Manager odds at talkSPORT BET

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  • Ange Postecoglou confirms key Tottenham man is set for six-week injury lay-off

    Ange Postecoglou confirms key Tottenham man is set for six-week injury lay-off

    Dominic Solanke will miss six weeks’ worth of action in a huge blow to Tottenham.

    The striker twisted his knee in training last week which led to him being ruled out of Spurs’ 3-2 defeat against Everton last weekend.

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    Solanke is set to be out for around six weeks with a knee injuryCredit: Getty

    Solanke also missed the Europa League victory over Hoffenheim on Thursday night, and Ange Postecoglou was asked about his fitness in his post-match press conference.

    Unfortunately for Spurs fans, the Australian boss didn’t have good news.

    “With Dom [Solanke] the information now is around the six week mark with him.

    “No surgery but we’re looking around six weeks. It might be quicker but we’ll see.”

    Speaking on Sunday about the injury, Postecoglou told Spurs’ club media: “It was just one of those things. It wasn’t like it was even a challenge.

    “It was just him trying to shoot and twisting his knee.

    “It’s just one of those things that, unfortunately, we’re going through at the moment.”

    Since arriving from Bournemouth last summer, Solanke has proven himself as a first team regular under Postecoglou.

    In 29 matches he has scored 11 times and contributed six assists along the way.

    However his injury could see Solanke miss a crucial run of games for Tottenham.

    Solanke has been in great form for Spurs this season

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    Solanke has been in great form for Spurs this season

    Spurs fixtures Dominic Solanke could miss

    Spurs fixtures Dominic Solanke could miss

    Saturday January 26th: Leicester (H), Premier League

    Thursday, January 30th: IF Elfsborg (H), Europa League

    Sunday, February 2nd: Brentford (A), Premier League

    Thursday, February 6th: Liverpool (A), Carabao Cup semi-final second leg

    Sunday, February 9th: Aston Villa (A), FA Cup fourth round

    Sunday, February 16th: Man United (H), Premier League

    Saturday, February 22nd: Ipswich (A), Premier League

    Wednesday, February 26th: Man City (H), Premier League

    A six-week absence would see the 27-year-old miss five Premier League matches.

    They include this weekend’s home clash with Leicester and the fixtures against Brentford, Manchester United, Ipswich and Man City.

    It will also see him miss their final Europa League league phase fixture against IF Elfsborg, the FA Cup fourth round clash with Aston Villa and their crucial EFL Cup semi-final second leg fixture with Liverpool.

    Spurs hold a 1-0 lead going into the second leg at Anfield on Thursday, February 6 – a crucial fixture as the north London side go in search of a trophy.

    Should Tottenham make it to the final, Solanke will face a race against time to be fit with the match to take place on Sunday, March 16.

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  • Postecoglou confirms Solanke injury ahead of Everton game as Spurs in crisis

    Postecoglou confirms Solanke injury ahead of Everton game as Spurs in crisis

    Dominic Solanke is not in Tottenham’s squad to face Everton this afternoon with his injury now confirmed.

    It has forced Spurs to start captain Heung-min Son up front as their injury crisis continues to get worse.

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    Postecoglou is without yet another key star for the trip to EvertonCredit: Getty

    Solanke has largely led the line on his own due to the club’s fitness issues but has now suffered a knee problem himself.

    Brennan Johnson is also absent along with Timo Werner, while Yves Bissouma is unfit and Ben Davies, who is starting this afternoon, won’t last the full 90 minutes, according to Ange Postecoglou.

    Postecoglou confirmed the news ahead of kick-off at Goodison Park, saying: “Brennan and Biss picked up knocks against Arsenal.

    “Biss not too bad, Brennan probably a little bit more significant.

    “Dominic tweaked his knee yesterday in training trying to take a shot and misses today and not sure of the extent of it.”

    Postecoglou continued: “It’s always a blow when you lose key players for any club.

    “Obviously in the situation we’re in that’s further exemplified by the fact that we don’t really have the depth to cover it at the moment, but that’s okay.

    “We’ve got 11 fit players and that’s what you need to start a game.”

    Solanke is one of multiple players to miss the visit to Merseyside and there are concerns that a lengthy spell on the sidelines awaits.

    He also sat out the reverse meeting with Everton after picking up a knock on his Premier League debut for Tottenham.

    Solanke has been a near-constant figure in the Premier League for Spurs

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    Solanke has been a near-constant figure in the Premier League for Spurs

    The England international sat out the 4-0 win over the Toffees in August as well as the 2-1 defeat to Newcastle in the club’s next match.

    However, since his return, Solanke has been near-ever present for Tottenham in the Premier League, scoring seven times.

    Aside from sitting out a 1-1 draw with Fulham in December due to illness, the 27-year-old has started every other top-flight match.

    Postecoglou’s lack of cover in forward areas following Richarlison‘s injury woes have also meant Solanke hasn’t been afforded a rest.

    The latter has played the third-most amount of minutes in the Premier League for Tottenham this season, only behind Pedro Porro and Dejan Kulusevski.

    Solanke has also racked up over 500 minutes across three cup competitions, with 11 goals in total since arriving from Bournemouth.

    Johnson is also out against Everton too

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    Johnson is also out against Everton tooCredit: AFP

    He was even needed to cameo from the bench in the FA Cup third-round 3-0 extra-time win over National League Tamworth.

    Only this week, Postecoglou all-but foreshadowed Solanke’s injury by sharing his fear that his No.9 was being overloaded.

    The Australian manager admitted he was in the process of targeting a new forward this month to relieve the burden on Solanke.

    Postecoglou said: “If we can get him some help, yeah [he will continue to fill the gap left by Harry Kane].

    “Dom has just been outstanding in the way he’s carried the frontline for us during this period.

    “With the way we play, we put a lot of demands on that position. It’s not just him standing up there scoring goals, it’s working hard for the team.

    Solanke has picked up a knee injury

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    Solanke has picked up a knee injuryCredit: Getty

    “I really think if Richy was available, I think [Dom] would have been able to contribute even greater for us in terms of his output in goals.

    “I really love what he brings to us as a team from a football perspective, from a cultural perspective.

    “The only growth we’ve seen in recent times is him and Deki [Dejan Kulusevski] becoming on-field leaders in the team.

    “With Dom being a new player, it probably would have been easier for him to slip in and do his job but he’s taken on the responsibility of helping the whole team. He’s been great for us.

    Tottenham’s walking wounded

    Ruled out

    Dominic Solanke – Knee injury

    Guglielmo Vicario – Foot Injury

    Cristian Romero – Thigh Injury

    Micky van de Ven – Thigh Injury

    Destiny Udogie – Thigh Injury

    Timo Werner – Hamstring Injury

    Rodrigo Bentancur – Head Injury

    Wilson Odobert – Thigh injury

    Brennan Johnson – Calf injury

    Yves Bissouma – Knock

    “I really feel there is more to him and his game. We’ll be able to get more out of him if we can him some help.”

    Postecoglou will now be sweating on a prolonged absence for Solanke ahead of a crucial spell in Tottenham’s faltering season.

    The 2-1 defeat to rivals Arsenal in the north London derby confined Spurs to 15th in the table – already 14 points off the top four.

    The Lilywhites haven’t won a Premier League match since beating bottom-of-the-table Southampton on December 15.

    Emmanuel Petit calls for Ange Postecoglou to be sacked after Arsenal beat Tottenham in the North London derby

    That is their only victory in their past nine top-flight encounters, with Everton having the chance to move within four points of Tottenham with a game-in-hand.

    Solanke faces a race to be fit for the Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg clash against Liverpool at Anfield.

    He provided the assist for Lucas Bergvall’s winner in the first meeting between the two, with Spurs holding a slender 1-0 advantage.

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  • Tottenham crisis deepens as Solanke becomes 10th star ruled OUT of Everton game

    Tottenham crisis deepens as Solanke becomes 10th star ruled OUT of Everton game

    Tottenham’s injury crisis has been plunged to a new low with Dominic Solanke out of Sunday’s clash with Everton, talkSPORT understands.

    It means that Richarlison is likely to be drafted in to the starting XI in his place.

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    Postecoglou will be without yet another key star for the trip to EvertonCredit: Getty

    Solanke has largely led the line on his own due to the club’s fitness issues but has now suffered a knee problem himself.

    The £65million summer signing will miss the visit to Goodison Park with concerns a lengthy spell on the sidelines awaits.

    Solanke also sat out the reverse meeting with Everton after picking up a knock on his Premier League debut for Tottenham.

    The England international sat out the 4-0 win over the Toffees in August as well as the 2-1 defeat to Newcastle in the club’s next match.

    However, since his return, Solanke has been near-ever present for Tottenham in the Premier League, scoring seven times.

    Aside from sitting out a 1-1 draw with Fulham in December due to illness, the 27-year-old has started every other top-flight match.

    Ange Postecoglou’s lack of cover in forward areas following Richarlison‘s injury woes have also meant Solanke hasn’t been afforded a rest.

    The latter has played the third-most amount of minutes in the Premier League for Tottenham this season, only behind Pedro Porro and Dejan Kulusevski.

    Solanke has also racked up over 500 minutes across three cup competitions, with 11 goals in total since arriving from Bournemouth.

    He was even needed to cameo from the bench in the FA Cup third-round 3-0 extra-time win over National League Tamworth.

    Solanke has been a near-constant figure in the Premier League for Spurs

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    Solanke has been a near-constant figure in the Premier League for Spurs
    Richarlison is likely to start against his former side having scored at Goodison last season

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    Richarlison is likely to start against his former side having scored at Goodison last seasonCredit: Getty

    Only this week, Postecoglou all-but foreshadowed Solanke’s injury by sharing his fear that his No.9 was being overloaded.

    The Australian manager admitted he was in the process of targeting a new forward this month to relieve the burden on Solanke.

    Postecoglou said: “If we can get him some help, yeah [he will continue to fill the gap left by Harry Kane].

    “Dom has just been outstanding in the way he’s carried the frontline for us during this period.

    “With the way we play, we put a lot of demands on that position. It’s not just him standing up there scoring goals, it’s working hard for the team.

    “I really think if Richy was available, I think [Dom] would have been able to contribute even greater for us in terms of his output in goals.

    Solanke has picked up a knee injury

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    Solanke has picked up a knee injuryCredit: Getty

    “I really love what he brings to us as a team from a football perspective, from a cultural perspective.

    “The only growth we’ve seen in recent times is him and Deki [Dejan Kulusevski] becoming on-field leaders in the team.

    “With Dom being a new player, it probably would have been easier for him to slip in and do his job but he’s taken on the responsibility of helping the whole team. He’s been great for us.

    “I really feel there is more to him and his game. We’ll be able to get more out of him if we can him some help.”

    Postecoglou will now be sweating on a prolonged absence for Solanke ahead of a crucial spell in Tottenham’s faltering season.

    The 2-1 defeat to rivals Arsenal in the north London derby confined Spurs to 15th in the table – already 14 points off the top four.

    Tottenham’s walking wounded

    Ruled out

    Dominic Solanke – Knee injury

    Guglielmo Vicario – Foot Injury

    Cristian Romero – Thigh Injury

    Micky van de Ven – Thigh Injury

    Destiny Udogie – Thigh Injury

    Timo Werner – Hamstring Injury

    Rodrigo Bentancur – Head Injury

    Wilson Odobert – Thigh injury

    Injury doubt

    Brennan Johnson – Calf injury

    Yves Bissouma – Knock

    Emmanuel Petit calls for Ange Postecoglou to be sacked after Arsenal beat Tottenham in the North London derby

    The Lilywhites haven’t won a Premier League match since beating bottom-of-the-table Southampton on December 15.

    That is their only victory in their past nine top-flight encounters, with Everton having the chance to move within four points of Tottenham with a game-in-hand.

    Solanke faces a race to be fit for the Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg clash against Liverpool at Anfield.

    He provided the assist for Lucas Bergvall’s winner in the first meeting between the two, with Spurs holding a slender 1-0 advantage.

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  • Arsenal legend says Postecoglou should be SACKED by Spurs after derby defeat

    Arsenal legend says Postecoglou should be SACKED by Spurs after derby defeat

    Ange Postecoglou should be sacked as Tottenham boss after their north London derby defeat.

    That’s the view of Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit, who told talkSPORT that Spurs need to put their players out of their misery.

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    Ange Postecoglou should face the sack, according to Emmanuel Petit

    Fresh from a tricky FA Cup victory over non-league Tamworth on Sunday, Postecoglou’s side went into the clash at the Emirates Stadium in need of a reaction and got one when Heung-min Son put them ahead early on.

    However, it didn’t take long for Arsenal to seize control of the game and secure a 2-1 victory in a game that could have gone even further in the Gunners’ favour.

    As well as keeping them stuck in 13th spot in the table, Spurs have lost four of their last five games in the Premier League and picked up just 11 points in their last 12 games, conceding 22 goals in the process.

    With Tottenham 14 points from the top four and just eight points from the drop zone, Petit believes that the time is now for Spurs to make a change.

    Speaking to talkSPORT from the Emirates Stadium, Petit said: “I was watching Ange Postecoglou and he must be feeling really alone on the pitch tonight.

    “I think things are probably coming to the end for him. I think that something has to change.

    “We can see the league, we can see the faces of the players tonight on the pitch and they look so miserable, nobody looks like themselves.

    “As I said, I think something has to change at Spurs so I think he will get the sack.”

    Tottenham haven’t been helped by key injuries to Guglielmo Vicario, Cristian Romero, Micky Van de Ven, Destiny Udogie and Rodrigo Bentancur, while Richarlison has just returned to fitness.

    But reflecting on their fitness woes, Petit responded: “Injuries are something very important to deal with but they have enough quality in the squad.

    Arsenal were deserving of their victory at the Emirates Stadium

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    Arsenal were deserving of their victory at the Emirates StadiumCredit: Getty
    Meanwhile it's that sinking feeling once again for Spurs

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    Meanwhile it’s that sinking feeling once again for SpursCredit: Getty

    “Look at the players on the pitch, look at Son – he was amazing on the pitch for five years. Maddison this season – Maddison last year was such a great player, what has happened to him?

    “Something is broken in this team and you can’t sack all of the players and so you have to make the easiest decision and that’s to sack the manager.

    “I don’t like saying that and I feel for Postecoglou, but he deserves to be sacked because they’re going down game after game so change something.”

    Speaking to talkSPORT after the game Postecoglou said: “I just thought the first half in particular was just way too passive. We allowed Arsenal to control the game and we’re just nowhere near aggressive enough with and without the ball.

    “And, you know, allowed them to sort of feel comfortable in the game and that’s not what we’re about.

    “It’s unacceptable. It’s a big game, we should be ready for that. And I said we were nowhere near the team that we can be in that first half.

    Postecoglou needs to turn results around and quickly

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    Postecoglou needs to turn results around and quicklyCredit: Getty

    “I think all you do is you get up tomorrow morning and start preparing for a tough game on the weekend.

    “Our league form’s unacceptable, the results are unacceptable and it needs to change… as I said, our form and our results are nowhere near good enough so we need to change that.”

    Tottenham are next in action on Sunday when they travel to face Everton, before taking on German side Hoffenheim in the Europa League on Thursday.

    They then host Leicester City on Sunday, January 26.

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  • I was shocked by Arsenal vs Spurs rivalry but one moment made me see real hatred

    I was shocked by Arsenal vs Spurs rivalry but one moment made me see real hatred

    Arsenal vs Tottenham is a historic and bitter rivalry but for Martin Keown, the frenzy surrounding their clashes was initially surprising.

    The north London derby has been contested 196 times since their first meeting in 1909, with the Gunners leading on wins with 83.

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    It’s been 116 years since the first north London derby and the rivalry remains strongCredit: Getty
    Keown faced Spurs many times but surprised by the mania of the derby at first

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    Keown faced Spurs many times but surprised by the mania of the derby at firstCredit: Getty

    Keown appeared in 26 of the clubs’ battles across two stints at Arsenal during which he became a club legend.

    He first joined on a schoolboy contract in 1980, by which time plenty of blows were exchanged between the ferocious rivals on the pitch.

    However, despite the well-documented animosity between the clubs over the past century, Keown was seemingly taken aback by it.

    Tottenham had been stuck in a period of decline during Keown’s rise into the Arsenal team.

    While they remained each other’s fiercest geographical rivals, Manchester United suddenly became the most important competitive match for Arsenal.

    Still, Keown was quickly struck by the passion in north London – and one moment still lives with him to this day.

    Centre-back partner Sol Campbell received vitriolic abuse after going back on his word and joining Arsenal from Tottenham in a deeply controversial free transfer in 2001.

    Ahead of Wednesday night’s Premier League fixture at the Emirates Stadium, Keown reflects on his early experiences of the north London derby – and the day Campbell played for Arsenal at White Hart Lane.

    “When I first arrived, I was shocked with the hysteria around playing Spurs,” he exclusively told talkSPORT.

    “I was in a very good youth team, we won 9-0 in our very first youth team game, Glenn Hoddle’s brother [Carl] was playing and there were a few notable players.

    Keown was sent off in a 2-1 defeat to Spurs in 1999

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    Keown was sent off in a 2-1 defeat to Spurs in 1999Credit: Getty
    The centre-back certainly got stuck in against his beloved club's rivals

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    The centre-back certainly got stuck in against his beloved club’s rivalsCredit: Getty

    North London Derby: Key moments

    2001: Sol Campbell makes unsavoury return to Tottenham after controversial Arsenal transfer.

    2002: Thierry Henry scores arguably the greatest north London derby goal in a 3-0 win at Highbury and celebrates in front of Spurs fans.

    2004: Arsenal win 5-4 thriller at White Hart Lane in highest-scoring north London derby ever.

    2004: Arsenal win the league at White Hart Lane for the second time (also in 1971).

    2006: Managers Arsene Wenger and Martin Jol get into furious touchline scrap.

    2014: Theo Walcott taunts Tottenham fans by referencing the score while being stretchered off.

    2016: Harry Kane – the highest-scoring player in north London derbies – goes wild after a stunning goal in a 2-2 draw at White Hart Lane.

    2018: Eric Dier sparks furious scrap and Dele Alli hit by water bottle in clash two weeks later.

    “Everybody in-house was like, ‘Wow’… They took notice of us because it was a good group of young players that were coming through with players like [David] Rocastle and [Michael] Thomas.

    “Then we beat their reserve side, we scored six goals, again… And I never really got carried away with the Tottenham game.

    “I’m not trying to be arrogant, I just realised that it’s dangerous for it to be in your head too much.

    “My landlord was a Spurs fan, Charlie, he talked all the time about Spurs, the quality of the football, the way they were, the class.

    “So, it was just under the surface for me and I think I managed that well, I only got sent off once against Spurs, I think the game was pretty well over.

    “But I loved going to White Hart Lane, I loved the atmosphere, there was real hatred from their fans, particularly when Sol Campbell went, the situation went too far, way too far, but really great memories.

    Campbell's infamous return to White Hart Lane in 2001 turned ugly

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    Campbell’s infamous return to White Hart Lane in 2001 turned uglyCredit: Getty
    Keown and Arsenal won the league in 2004 at Spurs' old White Hart Lane

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    Keown and Arsenal won the league in 2004 at Spurs’ old White Hart LaneCredit: Getty
    Arsenal have had the edge over their London rivals down the years

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    Arsenal have had the edge over their London rivals down the years

    “I wouldn’t walk down the Tottenham High Road now, I don’t think it would be wise.

    “As much as the game has cleaned up and they’ve got a lovely new stadium, it’s a long walk on my own. So, White Hart Lane visits are few and far between.”

    Keown won eight north London derbies against Spurs and drew 12, tasting defeat on six occasions.

    His last ever derby experience came in 2004 when Arsenal drew 2-2 at White Hart Lane to win their ‘Invincible’ Premier League title.

    The centre-back didn’t play but was part of the iconic celebrations on their rivals’ home turf in front of the travelling fans.

    It was Keown’s third Premier League crown before leaving during the following summer, with Arsenal failing to become title winners since.

    Martin Keown SNAPS BACK at talkSPORT co-host during heated Arsenal striker debate

    Arsenal have retained an edge over their local rivals since Keown hung up his boots – albeit the gap is significantly smaller these days.

    The Gunners finished above Spurs for 21 successive seasons between the 1995/96 season to the 2015/16 campaign – before Tottenham went on a run of their own, finishing above their arch-rivals six times in a row.

    Mikel Arteta’s side have finished second behind Manchester City in the past two years and fallen away in this season’s race too.

    Victory against Spurs this week will see them close the gap on leaders Liverpool, who currently sit six points ahead with a game in hand.

    Tottenham are 11 places below Arsenal, having already lost ten Premier League fixtures during an injury-ridden season.

    However, Arsenal will certainly not be short of pressure on their shoulders following back-to-back cup defeats.

    Newcastle beat them 2-0 in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final last Tuesday to dent their hopes of reaching the final.

    Arsenal were then knocked out of the FA Cup on Sunday following a penalty-shootout defeat to ten-man Manchester United.

    They have won four of the last five meetings against Spurs, which includes a 1-0 away win earlier in the season.

    But their out-of-sorts local rivals could still further derail their chances of silverware and hand Liverpool a massive title boost.

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  • Arsenal step up striker chase in transfer domino which could lead to Spurs blow

    Arsenal step up striker chase in transfer domino which could lead to Spurs blow

    Arsenal are looking to reignite their long-term interest in Dusan Vlahovic, talkSPORT understands.

    The Juventus star has 18 months remaining on his contract with the Italian side and has so far shown no indication that he’s willing to pen fresh terms.

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    Arsenal could make a move to bring Vlahovic to the Emirates this monthCredit: Getty

    As a result, Juve are open to offload him – but only if they bring in a replacement for the Serbia international.

    It’s understood that a loan is the most likely option for the player, with Arsenal now considering their options.

    In a classic transfer domino effect, the Gunners’ pursuit could be aided if their fierce rivals miss out on a target.

    That’s because Juventus are confident of beating Tottenham to the signing of Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain.

    A deal for the PSG forward would pave the way for Vlahovic to move on from the Old Lady, freeing Arsenal up to make a move.

    Vlahovic has scored 53 goals in 124 games since joining Juventus from Fiorentina, including 12 in 23 so far this term.

    The Serbian striker was a top target for Arsenal in January 2022, but opted to join Juve instead in a deal worth £66million.

    talkSPORT understands Vlahovic was offered to Manchester United in a swap deal for Joshua Zirkzee earlier this month.

    Though it appears the Dutchman is willing to fight for his future under Ruben Amorim – just six months after arriving from Bologna.

    For Arsenal, the need for a new striker has stepped up in recent days.

    Vlahovic is a long-term target for Arsenal who need a striker

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    Vlahovic is a long-term target for Arsenal who need a strikerCredit: Getty
    That is in part down to the injury picked up by Gabriel Jesus

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    That is in part down to the injury picked up by Gabriel JesusCredit: AFP

    That is due to the significant injury blow suffered by Gabriel Jesus.

    The Brazilian forward picked up the injury in an awkward collision with Bruno Fernandes in the FA Cup third round defeat to United on Sunday.

    Jesus left the pitch on a stretcher and looked in serious discomfort, with Mikel Arteta admitting post-match that the prognosis wasn’t good.

    Speaking immediately after the match, Arteta said: “No update, but it’s not looking good.

    “He was in quite a lot of pain, he had to come off on a stretcher and it’s not looking good.”

    As it stands, Kai Havertz, who was guilty of a shocker in the FA Cup exit to United, is the club’s only recognised striker.

    Vlahovic has been directly involved in eight Serie A goals this season

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    Vlahovic has been directly involved in eight Serie A goals this season

    Mikel Arteta’s only other options would be to deploy wingers Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli in a false No.9 role.

    The club’s situation led to Arsenal fan Piers Morgan urging his club to ‘break the bank’ to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle during his appearance on the talkSPORT Breakfast show on Monday.

    However with Eddie Howe‘s side unlikely to sell their star man for less than a nine-figure fee, a move for Vlahovic could be a more cost-effective deal.

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  • Injury-hit Arsenal and Tottenham expected to name bold line-ups for derby

    Injury-hit Arsenal and Tottenham expected to name bold line-ups for derby

    Arsenal and Tottenham are both balancing injury-hit squads when they clash for the season’s second north London derby this week.

    The goal-shy Gunners host a Spurs side ravaged by defensive injuries in one of the Premier League’s most intriguing encounters.

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    Arteta’s Arsenal are desperately lacking panache up frontCredit: Getty

    Mikel Arteta‘s men are hoping to bounce back from their FA Cup exit to keep pace with leaders Liverpool on their return to the Emirates.

    Despite their penalty shootout heartache, Arsenal remain the only team with their unbeaten Premier League home record intact.

    Tottenham meanwhile will bid to restore their lost bragging rights having fallen to defeat in the reverse derby fixture in September.

    Spurs did secure their spot in the FA Cup fourth round but have only taken one point from the last 12 on offer in the Premier League.

    Arsenal vs Tottenham: Team news and predicted line-ups

    Arsenal

    The hosts are continuing to miss talisman Bukayo Saka in attack, with Gabriel Jesus now facing the prospect of a lengthy lay-off as well.

    The latter’s former Manchester City teammate Raheem Sterling had arguably his brightest showing in their FA Cup defeat on Sunday.

    The Chelsea loanee has also just come back from injury himself but has been waiting for an opportunity to earn a run in the team.

    Sterling has started just two Premier League games since his summer loan from Stamford Bridge.

    One of those starts ended after just 37 minutes following William Saliba‘s red card in the 2-0 loss against Bournemouth in October.

    Sterling enjoyed his best showing in an Arsenal shirt

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    Sterling enjoyed his best showing in an Arsenal shirtCredit: Getty

    Alternatively, Gabriel Martinelli could present an option on the right, with Arteta recently talking up his capability to deputise for Saka.

    The Brazilian’s pace in behind will be a vital asset against Tottenham’s defensive high-line on either flank.

    Should Martinelli be given the nod over Sterling on the right then Leandro Trossard is the other option to feature from the left.

    Kai Havertz endured a nightmare against Manchester United, missing a plethora of chances before his penalty was saved in the shootout.

    His form has led to increased calls for Arsenal to sign a new striker, but in their current state, the German will continue to lead the line.

    Arteta has a more straightforward selection pick in midfield, with Thomas Partey and Declan Rice replacing Jorginho and Mikel Merino.

    Martinelli has played the role of Saka at times since the latter's injury

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    Martinelli has played the role of Saka at times since the latter’s injuryCredit: Getty
    Sterling may finally get his chance to cement a spot in the attack

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    Sterling may finally get his chance to cement a spot in the attack
    • Tottenham have conceded at least once in each of their last 25 Premier League away games against Arsenal, since a 0-0 draw in 1998-99. In their league history, only at Bolton have they had a longer run without an away clean sheet (35 between 1923 and 2012).
    • Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 12 Premier League home games (W9 D3), and are the only side without a home loss so far this season (W6 D3). They’ve kept a clean sheet in each of their last four home league games, last recording five consecutive shutouts at the Emirates between December 2013 and February 2014.
    • Tottenham have won just one of their last eight Premier League matches (D2 L5), with that victory coming at bottom side Southampton. Indeed, since the start of this run only Leicester (4) and Southampton (1) have earned fewer points in the Premier League than Spurs (5).

    Captain Martin Odegaard, goalkeeper David Raya, and the back four are all expected to retain their spots from the FA Cup defeat.

    In addition to Saka and Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu are all confirmed absentees.

    Riccardo Calafiori will hope to be back involved, but Kieran Tierney has a bigger case to challenge Myles Lewis-Skelly‘s place at left-back.

    The Scot was notably the defender called upon from the bench by Arteta over Oleksandr Zinchenko against Man United.

    Tierney has come in from the cold in recent weeks

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    Tierney has come in from the cold in recent weeks
    Piers Morgan urges Arsenal to pay whatever it costs to sign ‘best striker in Europe’ Alexander Isak

    Tottenham

    The visitors are again without the majority of their first-choice backline, with goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario still sidelined.

    January signing Antonin Kinsky has impressed with successive clean sheets in his first two outings and will be between the sticks.

    Destiny Udogie,  Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Ben Davies are all in the treatment room – leaving Radu Dragusin as the only fit senior centre-back.

    The Romanian will be partnered by orthodox defensive midfielder Archie Gray, with Djed Spence returning on the left.

    Tottenham needed extra-time to overcome Tamworth

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    Tottenham needed extra-time to overcome TamworthCredit: Getty

    Pedro Porro is an ever-present option at right-back, while Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr are likely to start in midfield alongside Dejan Kulusevski.

    Rodrigo Bentancur will miss out due to concussion protocols, with highly-rated youngster Lucas Bergvall also pushing to be involved.

    Ange Postecoglou’s favoured front three looks poised to include Heung-min Son and Dominic Solanke, while Brennan Johnson will hope to start over James Maddison after scoring against Tamworth.

    Brazilian forward Richarlison has been out with a hamstring injury since November, while summer signing Wilson Odobert is also sidelined.

    Postecoglou has several key selection issues over his midfield

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    Postecoglou has several key selection issues over his midfield
    Maddison will hope to be involved in the derby

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    Maddison will hope to be involved in the derby
    • As a team, Tottenham have applied more pressures in the final third than any other side in the Premier League this season (1,321). Striker Dominic Solanke leads the way for this among players, with his 386 over 100 more than the next highest (Erling Haaland, 275).
    • Arsenal have conceded a league-high 28% of their Premier League goals in the opening 15 minutes of games this season (5/18). Meanwhile, Tottenham have scored more goals in this time period than any other side (11).
    • Each of Kai Havertz’s last 11 Premier League goals have been scored in London. The last Arsenal player to have a longer such run was Lukas Podolski (12 between December 2012 and April 2014).

    Arsenal vs Tottenham: What has been said?

    “Today we will take it again and we’ll go to Wednesday,” Arteta said following his team’s FA Cup exit on Sunday.

    “Another opportunity for us, probably at the right time as well to get what we deserve, perform again and give our supporters what they deserve as well.”

    “Incredible how we didn’t win the game,” added Arteta. “That’s basically to sum up the dominance, the superiority in relation to opposition and everything that we did to try to win the game.

    “And that’s it. We didn’t get what we deserved, clearly, but there is an element that is about putting the ball in the back of the net.”

    Gabriel's header handed Arsenal a third consecutive win away at Spurs

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    Gabriel’s header handed Arsenal a third consecutive win away at SpursCredit: Getty
    • Arsenal have won six of their last eight Premier League games against Spurs (D1 L1) and are looking to win three consecutive league games against them for the first time since January 1989 (a run of five).
    • Tottenham have won just one of their last 31 Premier League away games against Arsenal (D12 L18) and are winless in 13 since a 3-2 victory in November 2010.
    • Following their 1-0 win in September, Arsenal are looking to complete the Premier League double over Tottenham for the fifth time. Only in 2013-14 have they done so without conceding in the competition.

    Arsenal vs Tottenham: How to follow

    This Premier League clash is set to take place on Wednesday, January 15.

    Kick-off at the Emirates is scheduled for 8pm.

    The match will be shown on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Coverage begins at 6:30pm.

    You can subscribe to TNT Sports through discovery+, BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.

    talkSPORT will also have updates from north London, with Adrian Durham, Deeney and Scott Minto taking you around the grounds.

    talkSPORT.com will also have the action in our dedicated 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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  • Simon Jordan gives theory why Heung-min Son looks ‘like a bit-part player’

    Simon Jordan gives theory why Heung-min Son looks ‘like a bit-part player’

    Heung-min Son has been ‘a mile off’ his usual form on the pitch for Tottenham amid a decline in form.

    That’s the view of talkSPORT’s Simon Jordan, who revealed rumours the South Korean star underwent surgery and it may have affected his fitness.

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    Like Spurs as whole, Son has struggled to impress this seasonCredit: Getty

    Son has become one of Spurs’ most iconic players since completing a reported £22million move from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015.

    The winger has scored 169 goals in 431 appearances for the north London outfit to become one of the first names in their starting XI.

    He even won the Premier League Golden Boot alongside Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah at the end of the 2021/22 campaign with 23 goals.

    Spurs announced on Tuesday that his contract has been extended to 2026, despite his form this season arguably being underwhelming.

    Jordan has recently asked questions of the forward and now offered an explanation as to why his past quality has seemingly dipped.

    “Well I wonder if he’s fit,” he said on White and Jordan for talkSPORT.

    “I mean, I’ve understood through various channels, not Daniel [Levy, chairman] by the way, that he’s had surgery last year.

    “So some of things that I was looking at in a couple games that I’ve been to watch Spurs this season and I’m thinking, ‘He’s a mile off.

    “‘He doesn’t look like the same player that’s captured all the attention, at one point last season was the leader replacing Harry Kane. He looks like a bit part.’

    “It might be because he’s not 100 per cent fit, so I was questioning the idea of whether Son had run his course, and whether it was time for Tottenham to change up. Evidently not.”

    Son has experienced a run of form that has been far from his past best

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    Son has experienced a run of form that has been far from his past bestCredit: Getty
    Jordan believes the winger has been a 'mile off'

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    Jordan believes the winger has been a ‘mile off’Credit: talkSPORT

    Son has scored five goals and assisted six others in 17 Premier League outings this season but hasn’t contributed in his past four.

    Previous campaigns, including the last one, have seen him double these numbers by this stage of Spurs’ schedule.

    However, he remains integral to the team, especially when Spurs have been dealt various injury issues across all areas of the pitch.

    Ange Postecoglou named him on the bench for their 2-1 defeat to Newcastle on Saturday, although substituted him on 62 minutes.

    The 32-year-old suffered a hamstring injury earlier in the campaign but has remained relatively fit ever since.

    Spurs will hope Son can further add to his goal tally this season when they face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.

    Son is set to stay at Spurs for another year after his contract news

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    Son is set to stay at Spurs for another year after his contract newsCredit: Getty

    Postecoglou’s side host the Premier League leaders in the first leg, live on talkSPORT, off the back of a four-game winless streak.

    They have beaten Manchester City and Manchester United en route to the final four, but Liverpool may be an even tougher challenge.

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