Postecoglou Searches for Momentum as Struggling Spurs Face Southampton

Ange Postecoglou, the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, expressed that their home match against last-placed Southampton on Sunday could serve as a vital confidence booster ahead of the Europa League quarter-final first leg against Eintracht Frankfurt four days later.

Back in December, Spurs delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over the Saints, yet their erratic form has seen them falter against teams further down the league, notably suffering a 3-2 defeat to Everton and a 2-1 loss at home to Leicester City in January.

Currently positioned 14th in the Premier League standings, the London club is facing increased pressure to qualify for Europe through the league as this seems increasingly unlikely. Consequently, their Europa League campaign has gained significant importance.

Securing the Europa League title could also prove beneficial for Postecoglou, who faces scrutiny from fans, particularly after some expressed their discontent with his substitution decisions during the recent 1-0 defeat at Chelsea on Thursday.

“Regardless of people’s opinions at the moment, I believe there’s not a single Tottenham fan who wouldn’t desire to win the Europa League. The home leg in the Europa League will be crucial,” the Australian told reporters on Friday.

“I thought our build-up play at Stamford Bridge was quite positive, but we need to improve our efficiency in the final third. Wilson (Odobert) and Dom (Dominic Solanke) have been sidelined for a significant part of the season.

“I saw enough to build upon that, and Sunday presents a good opportunity to elevate our performance to the required level for the Europa League.”

Postecoglou further noted that his team is in fine physical condition, and defender Micky van de Ven, who experienced cramping after his first match back from injury, is expected to be fit for Sunday’s game.

“We need to create some momentum. We will implement a few changes, but not excessively,” Postecoglou stated when asked about potential squad rotation against Frankfurt.

The Australian admitted it was a misstep to cup his ear to Spurs fans after Pape Sarr’s goal, which was later negated by VAR, despite previously downplaying claims he was showing frustration towards supporters.

“Celebrating a goal was my error; VAR got the better of me, and I won’t repeat that,” he confessed.