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This weekend brought one of those treasured situations on the Tottenham side of North London: a win for Spurs and a defeat for our neighbors Arsenal.

West Ham got the surprise with a deserved win against a strangely flat (at least in the first half) Arsenal.

This season of course is long gone for any hope of Spurs catching Arsenal who now will find it very difficult themselves to catch Liverpool following their win at City.

No, our eyes are more towards the very mid of mid-table (though at least clear of the relegation places, which wasn't quite the case just a few weeks ago).

Spurs winning at Ipswich shouldn't count a shock, but I also did not have us as strong favorites at Portman Road.

Ipswich have been a little unlucky not to have more points this season, have already beaten us once, and could have been 3-0 up in the first 5 minutes.

Liam Delap could have had a hat trick before we even really got into the match. I don't think he can take a throw-in as well as Rory Delap could, but he was a threat all game, and is having a great season despite his team's league position.

As it turned out, the 85 minutes that followed were one of our stronger performances of recent weeks.

Even after conceding to let Ipswich back in the game, we kept our composure. Kevin Danso particularly had a solid game at the back.

So too Djed Spence. We still miss Van de Ven and Romero a lot, particularly Mickey's unrivaled pace, but Danso has started well after signing in January. It was good to see James Maddison play an effective role as well.

It was a very good weekend in general for away teams in the premier league. A lot of away wins by teams near to us in the table.

Chelsea dropped points again, though it still looks like a bit of a gap too far for us to catch them. With 12 games left, it seems we are pushing for top half at best, but you never know.

One question fans of Spurs and others could be asking of their club is if Marco Asensio was available in January, why didn't we try to sign him? I think Villa have made a great transfer there.

So, high importance for the rest of this season for the Europa League. With that in mind, our opponents AZ Alkmaar won 1-0 today and currently sit 4th in the Eredivisie.

Although we have already beaten AZ Alkmaar once in the Europa League this season, and I am glad we avoided Real Sociedad, Troy Parrott starting up front for our opponents is a potential concern when we play.

Or maybe I am worrying unencessarily? I mean, former players never come back to score or play blinders against Spurs, right?

As for any Diamond Lights re-release or a Hoddle & Waddle Greatest Hits tribute? No news today, but I'll be sure to cover it should either of those dream scenarios receive any updates.

Tottenham players can be certain that their achievements do not go unnoticed.

Especially when it comes to growth and improvement as footballers, the Spurs continue to develop, preparing themselves for each match. One player, in particular, recently caught the attention of Neil Warnock.

Before diving into that, let's recap some of the latest news surrounding the club.

It is believed that Tottenham’s rising star, Yang Min-Hyeok, may remain out on loan until next season, as the club feels he still needs time to adapt.

And speaking of young talents, rumours suggest that Spurs are interested in signing another promising youngster—this time from Corinthians.

Now, onto Neil Warnock, the former Middlesbrough manager, and his thoughts on Djed Spence, who previously played under him.

Neil Warnock shares his thoughts on Djed Spence's performance

Speaking on The Seaman Says Podcast, Warnock shared his opinion on Spence’s latest performances, admitting he feels proud of the player’s progress:

"Well, I watched Djed Spence and I thought, what a player, you know. Unfortunately for me, I'm hoping that some of the things I said to him at Middlesbrough might have come through. Because he wasn’t a nice lad."

"He had a few problems, I thought, at Middlesbrough. And he had to sort himself out. But last night, when you looked at him on the pitch last night, I even thought, I bet he’s done all right off the pitch now," Warnock explained.

He also clarified that, despite not being fond of Spence as a person, he never doubted his abilities, "He’s learnt so quickly, hasn’t he?" Warnock said.

Furthermore, he suggested that former Tottenham manager Antonio Conte didn’t truly want to sign Spence but was simply looking to bring in an English player.

"I don't think Conte wanted him, if I'm honest. But, and you'll give him a chance. And I looked at it, I thought he was refreshing me. That's nice. Everything he did, I thought, that'll do for me."

Spence is living the dream at Tottenham

According to reports, Spence had a reality check during his loan spell, which motivated him to push himself to the highest level.

He has shown that he has learned from past mistakes and matured to meet the high standards expected at Tottenham.

The truth is, Spence has been given more opportunities within the first team, allowing him to showcase his talent.

He arrived at the club as a young boy with a dream, and now, he is finally making it a reality.

Last summer, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison was left out of Gareth Southgate's final squad as England manager for the European Championships - after struggling to discover form upon his return from injury last season, something he even noted himself.

After Southgate put an end to his eight year stint as England manager, just two days after the tournament. Subsequently, U21 manager Lee Carsley was appointed interim manager, with the remit of three camps, and six nations league games. Despite numerous drop outs in that time - Maddison was not included in any of the squads.

However, with Thomas Tuchel since appointed manager - you would assume that everybody has a clean slate. So the question is - has the Spurs midfielder done enough to be named in his first squad next month?

Has Spurs midfielder James Maddison done enough for an England recall next month?

This season - perhaps quietly - Maddison has scored nine goals in the Premier League. The only English midfielder that can better that is Cole Palmer - with 14. Even then, three of those goals were penalties, and that is with over 800 more minutes than the Spurs midfielder.

The only other English players to score more than the 28-year old are Ollie Watkins and Liam Delap - two strikers - and he has more non penalty goals than Delap. He has also scored two more league goals than Jude Bellingham.

On top of these goals, he also has five assists - the latest of which came against Ipswich Town on Saturday, where he showed absolutely sublime footwork before assisting Djed Spence - showing a player really high on confidence.

Sure, stats aren't everything - and there are other things to consider in football. England also have a lot of depth in midfield areas, with a lot of quality players. However, how many players would you have above Maddison at the moment?

Form is not the only thing to consider. It's actually a pet hate when people think it is. For example, Argentina wouldn't have ever started an in form Maxi Rodriguez over an out of form Lionel Messi. You do have to look at a player's general level too.

That being said - aside from Jude Bellingham, whom feels like a non negotiable - are there any other attacking midfielders that could be above Maddison, regardless of form? Wouldn't say so when it comes to Phil Foden. Morgan Rogers is very talented, an exceptional ball carrier - but not him either.

The same applies for Morgan Gibbs-White, then who else is there? Although a different type of player, wouldn't have Conor Gallagher over Maddison. The consistently linked to Spurs, Angel Gomes, is better deeper.

This excellent season from the midfielder has also come whilst being tasked to play deeper, with more responsibility both in build up and defensively, yet it has has no negative impact on him, and in fact, has seemed to make him even better.

So, the overall verdict feels pretty clear - Maddison definitely deserves an England call up next month. As we often say, from a selfish point of view, you'd be happy for him to get two weeks of rest - but a call would definitely be merited, and we know he is a confidence player - so may well do him a lot of good.

Tottenham Hotspur are more than ready to put on a strong performance in their upcoming clash against Manchester City.

After what was shaping up to be a rather disappointing season, Spurs seem to be regaining confidence following their recent 1-4 victory over Ipswich last Saturday.

Let’s not forget they also secured a win against Manchester United before that.

Now, rumours are circulating that a new leader is emerging within the team—and it's none other than a defender. But before diving into that, here are some recent updates on the club.

Reports from a few days ago suggest that Tottenham have set their sights on midfielder Pablo Barrios and are willing to make a 'large investment' to secure the young talent.

Additionally, Dr Ben Rosenblatt, an expert in athlete health and biomechanics, has explained the possible reason behind Micky van de Ven’s recurring hamstring injuries.

Kevin Danso looks right at home at Tottenham

Now, back to the leadership talk within Spurs. The player in question is Austrian defender Kevin Danso.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Darren Ambrose (ex-pro and Tottenham fan) expressed his admiration for Danso’s leadership qualities:

"In terms of Kevin Danso coming into the team, the biggest compliment you can give him is he’s looked like he’s been there for years," he explained.

"He's come in, he looks assured. He's done a recovery tackle last Sunday on Hojlund, who’s not slow, by the way, which was fantastic on Sunday. So yeah, it doesn’t look like a new signing and he looks like he’s a leader."

Kevin Danso brings experience and stability to Spurs

Despite being a recent arrival at the club, Danso's experience is already proving invaluable. With Tottenham still battling a lengthy injury list, his presence brings much-needed stability to the squad.

Hopefully, he will get more game time in the future, as he has only featured twice since joining the club.

Meanwhile, Spurs are still dealing with defensive absences, including Cristian Romero, who remains sidelined with a quadriceps injury and is yet to return to training.

Micky van de Ven has also been out since November, with the coaching staff taking a cautious approach to his recovery.

Given Danso’s physicality and commanding presence on the pitch, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him become a true leader during matches.

And when Romero returns, they could form a formidable and aggressive defensive partnership.

So far this weekend, we have already covered how things went for Spurs loanees in the Championship, as well as for George Abbott and Notts County in League Two. Here is a review of how the rest of the weekend went for the current loanees.

Looking at the action for the rest of Tottenham Hotspur's loanees

In League One, there was action for Josh Keeley, Jamie Donley, and their Leyton Orient side – as they looked to build on an impressive win over Wrexham in mid week when they faced Bolton Wanderers – also away from home. As always, both players were in the starting XI. Â

Although they took the lead five minutes before half time, the O’s could not make it a perfect week, conceding two goals without reply in the second half – as they were condemned to a 2-1 defeat. Tough week having two games up North within the space of a few days. Â

Despite the defeat, Orient remain in the play off positions, with 53 points from 32 games – though are now only above Charlton Athletic and their hosts on goal difference.Â

Next up is a very tricky away game against runaway league leaders Birmingham City on Tuesday evening, for a 19:45 GMT kick off. Â

Down in the National League, Luca Gunter started for Wealdstone, as they made it two wins in a week with a 4-2 win at home to Ebbsfleet United. These wins have given the Stones some room to breathe – as they now sit in 18th place, with 35 points from their 32 games – two points above the relegation zone, with superior goal difference. Â

Next up is an away game against Tamworth on Tuesday evening, for a 19:45 GMT kick off.Â

Over in Belgium, Luka Vuskovic started for KVC Westerlo as they hosted Charleroi in the Belgium Pro League, though Alfie Devine was again out with an injury. In the first half, Vuskovic found the back of the net – for his seventh goal in 25 league outings this season – pretty incredible for a central defender. Â

However, despite this goal, Westerlo could not get the job done in the second half, conceding three uninterrupted goals to lose the game 3-1. This defeat leaves them in 13th place – the final relegation round place – with 30 points from their 27 games. Next up is an away game against OH Leuven on Sunday – for an 18:15 GMT kick off. Â

North of the border, Alfie Dorrington was an unused sub for Aberdeen – as they beat Kilmarnock 1-0 at home in the Scottish Premiership. This win has them third in the league, with 41 points from 27 games. Next up is an away game against Celtic on Tuesday evening, for a 20:00 GMT kick off. Â

Finally, Alejo Veliz was an unused sub for RCD Espanyol, as they pulled off a big 1-0 away to Alaves in La Liga. This win leaves them 15th in the league, with 27 points from their 25 games so far. Next up is an away game against Villarreal next Monday night – the third of March, for a 20:00 GMT kick off.Â

Like every position in the game, full-back evolves over the years as demands on players in that role change. There’s been attacking full-backs, defensive full-backs, full-backs that aren’t allowed over the halfway line, overlapping full-backs, and the development of “wing-backs” (I still remember the English media mocking an England manager once for using the term “wing-back” as if he had caused some great national insult). Sometimes, the style of play is associated with teams, eras, or even a decade. I recently was told Aaron Wan-Bissaka was transferred from Man United as he was too much of a “90s-style full-back”. (I’m not sure either. Man United were certainly more successful in the 90s than they are currently.)

Even with so many different iterations of the position, I don’t think I’ve seen a system designed to use them in quite the way that Ange does. There is sometimes the traditional overlap, but also often an underlap and done so in steps that they gradually move infield, often ending up in the central attacking positions. Whatever results Ange’s tactics yield (and this season has been a mix to say the least), I do like that we play on the front foot and do so a little differently to everyone else. We are trying something different.

And there’s few greater differences at the moment than one of own full-backs Djed Spence’s situation at Spurs. Spence’s start at Spurs hasn’t been smooth. A young player, signed in 2022 after impressing in the Championship for Nottingham Forest, Spence signed a long-term contract and good things were expected. The transfer seemed to have taken forever, which at least gave the impression of how much he must have been wanted by the management at the time. Then we barely saw him. A few very rare appearances for Spurs and 3 loans (Rennes, Leeds, Genoa) were quickly followed up by rumors of management never wanting the transfer and problems in training. It looked like a disappointing end might be in the future.

Fast forward to the most recent few months and Spence has arguably been our best player. He’s played much of that time on his opposite side at left-back but still impressed. He’s defending well but looking very comfortable on the ball, willing to take players on, dribbling past opponents. Full-back play like that has often been missing this season vs. last and it’s been noticeable in our overall performances. In some of our poorer games this season (thinking particularly league cup semi-final at Anfield), he’s even been our best attacking threat as well. It was interesting in the win at Ipswich this weekend, Spence again started at right back. A fair decision on recent form.

Now while Ange, as a manager who places a high degree of importance on the full-backs, should of course take some credit, it should also be remembered that Ange himself seemed reluctant to play Spence earlier this season. He chose not to even register him in the original Europa League squad.

In a season of many lows so far, it’s good to have found a high. And now Europa League gives us an opportunity for an amazing turnaround. And Djed’s been added to that Europa squad now. Who says Ange isn’t flexible?

In the Championship this past weekend, there were three games for Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Ashley Phillips and his Stoke City side were in action away to Norwich City – just down the road from where Spurs were playing – Yang Min-hyeok and QPR were in action away to Portsmouth, whilst Will Lankshear and West Bromwich Albion hosted Oxford United. Â

To begin, Phillips was named in Mark Robins starting XI for the trip to Carrow Road. However, he could not prevent his side from losing 4-2, in a disappointing afternoon. The young defender made five clearances during the 90 minutes – which took his league total minutes to 1912 for the season – good experience all the same. Â

This defeat leaves the Potters sitting in 19th place in the Championship, with 35 points from 33 games. They remain five points clear of the drop – whilst having a game in hand. Â

Meanwhile, despite starting and assisting against Derby County last week, Yang Min-hyeok was on the bench for showdown at Fratton Park. Midway through the second half, he came on as a sub with the R’s 2-0 down, and they got one back five minutes later, but could not find an equaliser, and left empty handed. The South Korean created two chances and one big chance, whilst winning all three of his ground duels.Â

This defeat leaves QPR in 14th place in the Championship, with 44 points from their 34 games to date. Â

Finally, Lankshear was named amongst the substitutes by Tony Mowbray for the visit of Oxford. It would prove to be a comfortable afternoon for the Baggies, winning 2-0 and being on top for the entirety of the game. As for Lanskhear himself, he played the final 13 minutes of the game, replacing Adam Armstrong. Â

This victory leaves West Brom in fifth place in the Championship, with 51 points from their 34 games so far, as they remain in the play off positions.

Next up for Stoke is a home game against Watford. Meanwhile, QPR are in action at home to Sheffield United – with both games kicking off at 15:00 GMT. Meanwhile, West Brom are in action away to Leeds United at 12:30 GMT, with the game live on Sky Sports red button for those in the UK. With Sheffield United and Leeds both being in the top two, both games will have plenty of repercussions. Â

Continuing with transfer news, Tottenham appear ready to make a big move for a rising star.

As we edge closer to the summer transfer window, speculation over potential signings continues to flood the club.

Spurs have been linked with numerous players in recent weeks, including two young talents, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Tyler Dibling.

They have also been keeping tabs on a midfielder they have been monitoring for some time, Angel Gomes.

However, fresh reports suggest that Tottenham have now set their sights on Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios as their next target.

Tottenham set their sights on midfielder Pablo Barrios

According to Fichajes, Spurs are prepared to make a 'large investment' to bring the Spanish midfielder to N17.

Furthermore, the report claims that Tottenham are leading the race, having shown the strongest interest in the 21-year-old.

It is said that the North London club are willing to submit a €75m (£62m) offer for Barrios.

Tottenham’s midfield is already well-stocked with top talents such as Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison, the latter having recently scored the winner against Manchester United.

However, the midfield has not been spared from the injury crisis plaguing the squad, and setbacks to players like Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma may push the club and Ange Postecoglou to consider a signing like Barrios.

A potential arrival at Tottenham could be on the horizon

Despite his young age, Pablo Barrios has emerged as a key figure for Atletico Madrid in recent months, proving himself among more seasoned players.

We know that Tottenham welcome young talents with open arms—though some may question the approach—so a move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium would not be surprising.

Additionally, the report suggests that Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is an admirer of Barrios, but a €75m offer could be difficult to refuse.

That said, there are also rumours that Atletico are preparing a contract renewal for Barrios in response to Tottenham’s interest.

It is certainly an intriguing situation for 'Los Colchoneros', as a sale could help their financial position, but it remains to be seen how this transfer saga will unfold.

With the summer transfer window approaching in a few months, Tottenham have already begun weighing up their options.

Having endured a season of highs and lows, the club’s spirit has not been completely dampened, and they are now determined to bring in fresh talent.

Recently, we reported that Tottenham had shown interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. However, they are not the only ones in the race, as Chelsea are also leading the competition for the player.

At the same time, strong rumours suggest Spurs are eyeing a Premier League star with a £60 million release clause—Eberechi Eze—who also plays for Crystal Palace.

Now, attention has shifted towards two other players: a midfielder and a forward.

Tottenham keeping a close eye on Jamie Gittens and Tyler Dibling

On Friday, GIVEMESPORT reported that Tottenham are keen on signing two young talents, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Tyler Dibling.

According to the outlet, this is part of a new transfer strategy.

Spurs’ interest in Tyler Dibling is not new, as we previously mentioned that reports suggest Tottenham are in advanced talks with Southampton over a potential deal for the youngster.

The proposed structure would see the 19-year-old join on an initial loan with an obligation to buy, allowing Spurs to defer the hefty £50 million asking price until the summer.

However, securing his signing is far from certain, as Newcastle are also closely monitoring him.

As for Jamie Gittens, the 20-year-old forward is reportedly the more challenging target.

According to various reports, the club anticipates a tough battle to land him, especially considering that during the last transfer window, Dortmund were demanding £83 million for his services.

Spurs have no fear when it comes to investing in young talent

Will Spurs manage to sign these promising young talents? Tottenham are well known for their willingness to invest in young prospects.

A prime example is Archie Gray, a versatile 18-year-old who has been making headlines among both the media and fans, along with the club’s recent signing, Mathys Tel.

So far this season, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens has registered 11 goals and 3 assists, while Tyler Dibling has scored 2 goals and provided 2 assists, earning a reputation for creating excellent goalscoring opportunities.

We will have to wait and see how things unfold for these two players in the upcoming transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur and their players can breathe easy—at least until the next match.

Although Micky van de Ven has been sidelined since November, the Dutchman remains on the minds of fans wondering when he will return to action.

But before diving into Van de Ven’s situation, let’s take a look at the latest news surrounding the club.

On Saturday, Tottenham faced Ipswich in a Premier League fixture, securing a dominant 4-1 victory, with Brennan Johnson stealing the spotlight.

Speaking of standout performances, Spurs captain Heung-Min Son received high praise from the media and manager Ange Postecoglou, who described him as 'unplayable.'

Now, turning back to van de Ven, a biomechanics expert has given his opinion on the defender’s situation.

Dr Ben Rosenblatt reveals possible reasons behind the Dutchman’s injury struggles

According to a report from The Athletic, Dr. Ben Rosenblatt, founder of 292 Performance (a company providing high-performance support for elite athletes), explained that while an athlete’s running style can be changed, making it a permanent adjustment could take a long time and might even come with risks.

Speaking to the outlet, Rosenblatt said: "Every athlete has a unique way that they move and that is across jumping, kicking a ball, sprinting and landing. Some tasks leave an athlete more vulnerable to injury.

"The biggest risk is that you’re trying to change something which doesn’t need to be changed," Dr Rosenblatt explained. "We invested a huge amount of energy and effort so you have to consider the cost benefit.

"Moving more efficiently is always going to be good but the amount of time, effort and energy it takes is always demanding."

Micky van de Ven still not ready to return to the pitch

Micky van de Ven has faced challenges on the pitch.

The defender possesses remarkable physical attributes, but not every player can match his acceleration and top speed.

Because of this, as cited by various reports, his explosive pace could be a key factor in why the Dutchman has suffered hamstring injuries so early in his career.

As reported by Football London, manager Ange Postecoglou recently stated that Tottenham are looking into van de Ven's 'mechanics' to improve them and reduce the risk of future injuries.

The Dutchman is still not ready to return, as the manager mentioned a few weeks ago. Micky got through 45 minutes of a training session, but he feels he’s not yet ready to take the step up to the Premier League.

For now, Spurs can enjoy their two recent victories, welcome back some returning players from injury, and start preparing for their next big test—Wednesday’s clash against Manchester City.