Tottenham Hotspur finds itself at a crossroads as it prepares for the upcoming Europa League clash against AZ Alkmaar on March 6, 2025. With key players struggling with injuries, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou faces the challenge of fielding his strongest side during this pivotal stretch of the season.
After enduring months of injury setbacks, including significant losses to their defense, Spurs appear to be on the cusp of seeing some relief. Several squad members, including Micky Van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Dominic Solanke, recently returned to training, sparking hope among fans as the club aims for silverware.
For the first time since their respective injuries, Van de Ven and Solanke participated fully in training, alongside Romero, who returned last week. Notably, Solanke has been sidelined for the last nine matches due to a knee injury. His potential return, together with Van de Ven's participation, could be the boost Spurs desperately need.
"He should definitely be back for the second leg; there’s an outside chance for the first,” said Postecoglou, referring to Van de Ven’s possible inclusion for the upcoming matches. Both Van de Ven and Romero’s spirits seem high as they push for fitness, but the manager is taking precautions, particularly with key players.
"This is a key period, and I want as many players in the best possible condition," Postecoglou emphasized, indicating the importance of strategic management of player returns as the team faces both Premier League and Europa League challenges.
Van de Ven has struggled with injuries throughout the season, only managing to play two matches since first injuring his hamstring against Manchester City back in October. His potential return against AZ Alkmaar is uncertain, but expectations lean more realistically toward his involvement against Bournemouth on March 9, 2025. Meanwhile, Romero has faced similar challenges, suffering from a quad injury since substituting out early against Chelsea. Informing reporters, Postecoglou anticipates Romero might return against Bournemouth if not featuring against Alkmaar.
Adding to the recovery conversation is teenage striker Dominic Solanke, one of Tottenham’s key figures. Originally expected to miss around six weeks due to his injury, his recovery appears to be progressing faster than anticipated. Having been able to partake in training, Solanke also holds hope of returning for either the Bournemouth match or potentially on March 13 against Alkmaar if conditions allow.
Ben Davies has cleared some hurdles too, recovering from the unspecified knock he sustained earlier this month. All signs point toward him being fit enough for the match against AZ, providing much-needed stability to the defense.
Richarlison is another player hanging on the edge of return. Currently sidelined due to the calf injury he sustained during the Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool, Richarlison is likely to miss the AZ match but is aiming to recover for the Bournemouth fixture. His absence is palpable, but Spurs fans are optimistic about the gradual aggregation of returning talent.
On the darker end of the injury news, Romanian center-back Radu Dragusin underwent surgery for the ACL injury he sustained during the Europa League clash against Elfsborg. Unfortunately, this means he is out for the entire season and expected back only by December 2025, which is significantly disheartening for both him and the team.
The Europa League clash against AZ Alkmaar will kick off at 5:45 pm UK time, making it imperative for Spurs to utilize their returning players strategically. The team, who have been plagued by injuries, now faces both hope and pressure as they aim for victory to bolster their spirits heading forward.
Postecoglou’s approach will be key as he juggles squad depth and fixture congestion. With looming fixtures on the horizon, including important matches within the Premier League, Spurs must recapture form and consistency if they are to make significant strides. Fans await anxiously for the updates Postecoglou will share post-training session, hoping to see their stars back on the pitch.