Tottenham Hotspur will be without Son Heung-min for their clash against Premier League leaders Liverpool, but manager Ange Postecoglou is optimistic about having their captain back for the upcoming Europa League semi-final, which he announced on Friday.
The South Korean international has been sidelined for the last three matches due to a foot injury, and according to Postecoglou, he’s the sole injury worry ahead of Sunday’s encounter at Anfield. Spurs are set to face Bodo/Glimt on Thursday for the first leg of their semi-final.
“He’s making progress, which is encouraging, but he won’t be available for Sunday. We’ll assess him for Thursday,” Postecoglou told the media.
“Today was the first time he managed to train on the grass, and it’s definitely an improvement from where he was.
“As it’s a foot issue, being weight-bearing, he needs to take some time off it and let it rest.”
Liverpool can clinch the league title with a draw against Spurs, and while Postecoglou’s primary focus is on the Europa League, where his team can turn around a challenging season with a trophy, he insists that they aim to deliver a commendable performance at Anfield.
“Our goal is to compete strongly against a top-quality team. It’s not just about getting through unscathed; we want to ensure we perform well against a formidable opponent,” Postecoglou stated.
“Regardless of what lies ahead, that remains our top priority.”
With Spurs having suffered 18 league defeats this season, they are currently placed 16th in the table on 37 points, significantly trailing behind for a spot in European competitions next year. However, success in the Europa League would not only bring home some silverware but would also secure Champions League football.
“We are acutely aware that our league performance and standing are far from acceptable, but we also recognise there’s an incredible opportunity ahead,” the manager commented.
“That’s where our focus lies, which is crucial for a club that hasn’t enjoyed much success recently.
“By giving ourselves every chance to reach a final, we hope the momentum generated from that will enable us to achieve something remarkable.”
Postecoglou confessed to being a Liverpool supporter in his youth, but he is now solely focused on the task at hand come Sunday.
“I’m nearly 60 now; I’ve moved on from childhood crushes. It doesn’t affect me at all,” he remarked.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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