Tottenham Hotspur finds itself navigating a tumultuous period in the Premier League, grappling with a string of injuries that have left the team languishing in 15th place. Despite a promising start under manager Ange Postecoglou, where Spurs won eight and drew two of their first ten league games, the team's momentum has faltered. Currently, they sit just eight points above the relegation zone, having lost each of their first three Premier League matches in the calendar year for the first time since 1994.
The recent defeat to Everton underscored the challenges facing Tottenham. Everton, despite being the second-lowest scorers in the Premier League, managed to exploit Spurs' weakened defense, scoring three goals in the first half. This performance drew criticism from midfielder James Maddison, who labeled the first half as "unacceptable." The team had only 11 fit senior players available for the match, highlighting the extent of their injury woes.
"No excuses over the first half," said midfielder Maddison. "It was a tough afternoon. We had 11 fit senior players, so there is context. But we had 11 starters and the first half was unacceptable." – James Maddison
The injury list includes key players such as Rodrigo Bentancur, who is undergoing concussion protocols, and Yves Bissouma, who might return next weekend. In total, Tottenham has 11 players sidelined due to injuries, severely impacting their ability to perform at their best.
Despite these challenges, Postecoglou remains optimistic about the future. He believes that once injured players return, Spurs will be able to deliver improved performances and results. The manager emphasizes his responsibility to guide the available players through this difficult period.
"I separate myself from it," said the Spurs boss when asked about speculation over his future. "This is not about me. What's about me is I have a responsibility of the group of players I do have to try to get through this. That's all I've got to focus on. For me to focus on anything else is abstaining myself from the responsibility I have." – Ange Postecoglou
Tottenham's recent form has been less than stellar, with nine Premier League wins across the past nine months and no victories in their last ten league matches. They have suffered 12 losses this season, raising concerns about their ability to climb up the table. The team's struggles were further highlighted by their forced entry into extra-time against non-league Tamworth in the FA Cup and a midweek loss to arch-rivals Arsenal.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie O'Hara expressed frustration over the team's performances, questioning the leadership on the field and urging players to step up despite the injury crisis.
"I understand there are injuries. I get that. But you're professionals. You can't tell me Ben Davies isn't good enough, Dragusin isn't good enough, Pape Sarr, Maddison, Heung-min Son, Dejan Kulusevski… You've got good players in that team. Pedro Porro, Djed Spence. You've still got top players in the team to go and get results." – Jamie O'Hara
O'Hara also pointed out the need for young players to rise to the occasion when called upon and criticized the leadership qualities of team captain Heung-min Son.
"I know there's some young kids in there, but you've brought them in to play when other players can't play. So they've got to perform. And they're not performing." – Jamie O'Hara
"Where are the characters? Where's your captain? Son's meant to be the captain. He's not a captain." – Jamie O'Hara
Despite these struggles, Tottenham holds a 1-0 lead going into the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final with Liverpool, providing a glimmer of hope for silverware this season.
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