GIVEMESPORT

Key Takeaways

Tottenham fought back to earn a 4-1 win after Aston Villa took a first-half lead.

Dominic Solanke scored a brace to seal the victory for Tottenham.

James Maddison added a stunning free-kick to cap off a perfect week for Tottenham.

Tottenham fought back from a goal down at halftime to put Aston Villa to the sword on Sunday afternoon and earn a battling 4-1 win. Morgan Rogers had given the visitors the lead, but Ange Postecoglou's side, fresh off the back of a midweek victory against Manchester City, tore up the rulebook, as Brennan Johnson's goal was followed by a quickfire brace by Dominic Solanke and a wonderful free-kick from James Maddison in the second-half to crown a perfect week.

Both sides were looking to boost their hopes of Champions League qualification with a victory over a chasing rival, but both teams struggled to break the deadlock. It took half an hour for the first shot on target to come about, which turned out to be the first goal, as Rogers capitalised on some sloppy Spurs defending from a corner to steer the ball home.

It proved to be the only shot on target in the first-half as Unai Emery's side grew into the game and took their lead into the break. It wouldn't be long after the restart, though, that Tottenham would find a reply. Son Heung-min would deliver a perfectly weighted ball into the box for Brennan Johnson to notch his fourth Premier League goal of the season just five minutes into the second period. Dominic Solanke followed up with a second shot on target shortly after, to no avail.

The equaliser had instilled the obligatory hope among fans crammed into the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium that the game was set to come alive, but with Son coming off after just 55 minutes, the atmosphere appeared to deflate once more. Returning to the dull affair that kickstarted the afternoon, the tie needed a hero, and it was Solanke who came up trumps for the home side.

In the space of a few minutes before the clash entered its final 10 minutes, the former Bournemouth striker proved he was worth his transfer fee over the summer as he fired Tottenham to a 3-1 lead. The Englishman struggled to make much of an impact for much of the afternoon, but with Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison finding him in the right place at the right time, he proved to have his shooting boots on when his teammates needed him most, taking the Lilywhites back within two points of the top four before Maddison's free-kick capped off a perfect week with a beautiful free-kick in injury time.

Match Highlights

Tottenham Player Ratings

GK - Guglielmo Vicario - 7/10

Can often be criticised for his penchant for coming off his line, but he did it effectively against Villa and caught a lot of deliveries into the box (except for the pivotal one!)

RB - Pedro Porro - 7/10

Was an attacking threat in the first half, as well as looking the most vocal when his defence was on the back foot. Did, however, pick up the first booking for a challenge on Watkins.

CB - Cristian Romero - 7/10

With Micky van de Ven injured, Romero proved himself as Tottenham's best defender, as expected. Although, sometimes, he was tempted into unnecessary fouls, picking up a booking for his troubles before being subbed off after pgoing down injured.

CB - Radu Dragusin - 7/10

A steady performance from the Romanian international, one that will put Tottenham fans at ease after Micky van de Ven picked up an injury in midweek.

LB - Destiny Udogie - 6/10

Really good at bringing the ball forward, but there weren't too many opportunities to make much of a difference.

CM - Dejan Kulusevski - 7.5/10

Industrious early in the game, consistently looking to cause problems. He was finally given his flowers when his pass found Solanke to take Tottenham into the lead for the first time.

CM - Rodrigo Bentancur - 7/10

Lashed an effort over the bar after some neat play from Spurs in the first half. Headed the ball at his own goalkeeper, leading to the opener against the run of play, but was decent besides that. Came off after 55 minutes.

CM - Pape Matar Sarr - 6.5/10

In a game of limited chances, Sarr tried to take it upon himself to find the back of the net from distance. Unfortunately for him, he couldn't follow up his goal against Man City in midweek.

RW - Brennan Johnson - 7/10

Scored the equaliser as his run was met with a tantalising ball by Son.

ST - Dominic Solanke - 8.5/10

Just nine touches in the first-half put his performance in a nutshell as the former Bournemouth talisman struggled to show his goalscoring prowess and make a difference. But boy did he come alive in the two opportunities he did get in the second-half as he deftly finished the comeback job before scoring another quickly after to grab himself a brace.

LW - Son Heung-min - 7/10

Guided an inch-perfect cross into Johnson to bring the sides level. He looked energetic after the break, but was surprised to be subbed off after 55 minutes.

Sub - Richarlison - 7/10

Having come on in place of Son, Postecoglou needed the Brazilian to produce. He assisted the third goal to wrap up the three points for his side, but his lack of match sharpness shone as he had to come off before the full-time whistle.

Sub - Yves Bissouma - 6/10

Decent, didn't need to do much, but did a good job at keeping the midfield in Tottenham's grasp.

Sub - Ben Davies - 6.5/10

Did well, but didn't really need to do much from an impact perspective. Just a solid, easy cameo from the Welshman.

Sub - Archie Gray - 6/10

Decent shift from the youngster who got stuck in straight from the off.

Sub - James Maddison - 7/10

Scored a beautiful free-kick to put the cherry on top of the icing on top of the cake.

Aston Villa Player Ratings

GK - Emiliano Martinez - 5.5/10

Made a decent save to prevent Solanke taking Tottenham into the lead. Cannot be faulted for Johnson's goal, but did let in four in the end.

RB - Matty Cash - 6.5/10

Solid in defence in the first half during his first-half battle against Son, but lost his battle early into the second period. Hooked off just beyond the hour-mark.

CB - Ezri Konsa - 7/10

Won all his tackles, completed all but one of his passes, and notched himself an interception in the process as Konsa proved again that he's Villa's most reliable defender in the first-half. This effectiveness didn't wane, as he became Tottenham's biggest roadblock to a way back into the game before they let all hell break loose.

CB - Pau Torres - 6/10

Solid defensively and just as good at bringing the ball forward under pressure to allow the Villa defence to breathe, until he got too confident and gave the ball away to gift Solanke his second of the afternoon.

LB - Lucas Digne - 7/10

Took the corner that led to Rogers' goal, but struggled to keep up with Johnson in the second-half from a defensive standpoint.

CM - Amadou Onana - 7/10

Hit the post with a decent header, unlucky not to score, as he did everything else nigh-on perfectly.

CM - Youri Tielemans - 6.5/10

Orchestrated much of Villa's possession game, complementing Onana's more defensive style, though his influence quickly diminished after the break.

RM - John McGinn - 6/10

Given all the time in the world to size up and thunder a ball narrowly wide, but was very quiet otherwise.

CAM - Morgan Rogers - 7/10

Capitalised on some dismal defending from a corner to score the opening goal. FPL managers love him, Villa fans love him, and it won't be long before his international manager loves him, too, if he carries on the way he's going. His injury may be a cause for concern ahead of a trip to Anfield next week, though.

LM - Jacob Ramsey - 7/10

Chased every ball and did the dirty work so that those around him could steal the limelight. Exactly what the doctor ordered, as the young Englishman helped Lucas Digne keep the in-form Brennan Johnson to scraps.

ST - Ollie Watkins - 5/10

Had a decent chance early in the game after an excellent cross, but couldn't make contact. He was effective off the ball, but his wild shooting was very uncharacteristic of a striker currently considered among the best in the world. A very frustrating afternoon, as he went off after ghosting much of the 65 mintues he played.

Sub - Diego Carlos - 6/10

Decent defensively, but had to play witness to his teammates letting the Tottenham attackers slip through the net.

Sub - Jhon Duran - 5/10

A super sub who was devoid of his magic spark on Sunday. As Tottenham had all hands to the pumps, Duran was curiously quiet, despite being the hero on many an occasion like this one.

Sub - Boubacar Kamara - 6/10

Was perhaps Villa's best substitution, but it was definitely more of a case of best of a bad bunch.

Sub - Leon bailey - 5.5/10

His pace brought something different to the fold, but he was ineffecitve when in possession.

Sub - Jaden Philogene - 5/10

Touched the ball four times after coming into the fray.

Man of the Match

Dominic Solanke

When given the chance, Dominic Solanke rarely disappoints. Though quiet for much of the afternoon, he stepped up when Tottenham needed him most, netting twice after the break to overturn the deficit and keep Postecoglou's side within reach of Champions League qualification.

In the process, he doubled his Premier League tally for the season. Certainly, he still has a long way to go before rediscovering his Bournemouth form, but this afternoon was a very decent start.

Paul Merson has claimed that a loss for Tottenham Hotspur at home to Aston Villa would be 'curtains' for their hopes of finishing in the Champions League - with Unai Emery's side potentially able to open up an eight-point gap over Ange Postecoglou's men if they deliver capital punishment in London.

Tottenham began last season on fire with eight wins and two draws from their opening ten games, but that has faltered this season with the north London outfit having won just four of their first nine games and lost a further four. That saw them in eighth by the start of the Premier League's gameweek ten, and if they lose to Villa, they will be a long way away in terms of Champions League qualification - in which Merson has described their season as being 'curtains' if they suffer defeat.

Merson: Tottenham Could Have 'Big Blow' With Villa Loss

The north London club need to win to fire up the table

Speaking to SportsKeeda, the Arsenal legend predicted the worst for Postecoglou if they did lose, especially with other surprise clubs such as Brighton and Nottingham Forest in the hunt for the top four. He said:

"Villa's high line could face problems against Spurs, but I just can't see them not scoring in this game. It's going to be a big blow for Tottenham in their attempt to qualify for the Champions League if they lose this game.

"Villa can open up an eight-point gap over Spurs if they win and that may well be curtains for the north Londoners' hopes about finishing fourth. I just think Villa have a bit more in them than Tottenham, and fully expect them to win here. Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-2 Aston Villa."

Not only would Villa go eight clear, but Brighton and Nottingham Forest are making a charge for the top four - and with Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal likely to finish in those spots, Tottenham do have a tough challenge - especially with Newcastle going ahead of them with their win over the Gunners and Chelsea also creeping up the table.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Ange Postecoglou has won 30 of his 55 games in charge of Tottenham.

Tottenham have not qualified for the Champions League since the 2021/22 season and if they do lose against Emery's men, it will be a tough road to navigate back from.

Tottenham Hotspur take on Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon in a huge game in the race for European football - with Ange Postecoglou and Unai Emery both aiming to climb the Premier League table and avenge their poor results from last weekend.

Villa endured a last-minute, disappointing draw at home to Bournemouth as they led against the Cherries on home soil in a result that saw them fail to leapfrog Arsenal in the Premier League table into third - whilst Tottenham handed Crystal Palace their first win of the season to remain in eighth-place in the standings. With the duo finishing fourth and fifth in the top-flight table last season, they'll be keen to uphold those standards once again come the end of the campaign.

Neither team will find it easy to gain all three points with injuries plaguing both sides, and so both bosses will have to act accordingly to set their sides up for maximum points - and GIVEMESPORT takes a look at how both clubs could line up in the capital.

Tottenham Hotspur Team News

Micky van de Ven has been sidelined

Whilst Tottenham beat reigning Premier League champions Manchester City 2-1 in the League Cup in midweek, the Lilywhites were handed a huge blow when Micky van de Ven was substituted just 15 minutes of the clash.

He and Cristian Romero have formed a solid partnership at the back, but the Dutchman will not take part against the Villans and that could force Radu Dragusin into action alongside the World Cup-winning Argentine.

It's not just Van de Ven who is injured; Wilson Odobert remains injured after picking up an injury in the League Cup against Coventry City, whilst Djed Spence is likely to be out.

Even Romero could be out with Postecoglou stating that he 'has a chance' at the weekend, but if not that could see Ben Davies move into centre-back - whilst attacking duo Timo Werner and Son Heung-min face late fitness tests.

Speaking in his pre-game press conference, Postecoglou shared the latest on the fitness of his squad.

"Micky [Van de Ven] has sort of strained a hamstring. It's not too serious, but we're probably looking at after the international break. Sonny has trained today. If he trains tomorrow, he should be okay for the weekend. On Timo [Werner] and Cristian [Romero], at the moment, there's still a chance for them for the weekend."

Tottenham Hotspur Predicted XI

Dragusin to replace Van de Ven

Tottenham Hotspur Predicted XI: Vicario; Porro, Dragusin, Romero, Udogie; Sarr, Kulusevski, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, Son

Tottenham Hotspur Predicted Substitutes: Forster (GK), Gray (DEF), Davies (DEF), Bentancur (MID), Bergvall (MID), Moore (FW), Richarlison (FW), Bissouma (MID), Werner (FW).

With Van de Ven ruled out, Radu Dragusin will get the opportunity to stake his claim in the starting lineup alongside Romero at the back, while Pape Mate Sarr should start in midfield after some impressive performances in recent weeks.

With Son likely to be fit enough to feature, he will start ahead of Timo Werner and Mikey Moore on the left.

Aston Villa Team News

The Villans only have one player out injured

Villa's season has gone much better than Tottenham's so far, topping the Champions League standings in the new league phase and sitting in the top four of the Premier League.

That, however, could be attributed to injury woes at Villa Park being minimal. Emery will only have one of his players unavailable for the trip to north London, with Ross Barkley out on the sidelines after an injury.

The Everton academy graduate joined in the summer and scored vs Bournemouth before Evanilson's late equaliser saw the Cherries steal a late march on the Champions League chasing outfit - however, he's now out with injury in a slight blow to Villa's midfield ranks, though they still boast the likes of Amadou Onana, Youri Tielemans, Jacob Ramsey and John McGinn to play in the middle of the park and with just one injury, that is a huge boost for them ahead of the trip to the capital.

Speaking to the media, Emery provided an injury update on Barkley, stating that the star will only be out for two weeks with the rest of his squad up for selection. The Spaniard said:

"We have only one injured player. Ross [Barkley] has a small injury and won’t be available for the next two weeks."

Aston Villa Predicted XI

Leon Bailey misses out again

Aston Villa Predicted XI: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Onana, Tielemans, McGinn, Ramsey; Rogers, Watkins

Aston Villa Predicted Substitutes: Olsen (GK), Carlos (DEF), Mings (DEF), Maatsen (DEF), Buendia (MF), Bailey (FW), Kamara (MF), Duran (FW), Philogene (FWD).

With Barkley sidelined due to injury the team is likely to remain unchanged for this game with Amadou Onana keeping his place in midfield despite being taken off at half-time twice in recent matches. Ollie Watkins will also expect to keep his place up front, despite the excellent form of Jhon Duran.

As match week ten of the Premier League commences this weekend, Tottenham Hotspur will host Aston Villa in an intriguing clash in the first game of Super Sunday at 2PM.

Spurs come into this match desperate to put three more points on the board following their bitterly disappointing display against Crystal Palace last weekend. However, they did manage to overcome Manchester City in their midweek Carabao Cup tie, which could help boost their confidence heading into this one.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa will be looking to get back to winning ways to avoid three consecutive games without a win after they were held to a 1-1 stalemate against Bournemouth in their last league match and were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Crystal Palace 2-1 midweek.

Result Odds: Tottenham are Strong Favorites

Home Win - 8/11 | Away Win - 27/10 | Draw - 3/1

Despite Villa's five-point advantage heading into this matchup, surprisingly, it is the home side who lead the bookies odds this weekend, as they are favored as considerable favorites to claim victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

It has been a strange beginning to the season for Ange Postecoglou's side, as their performances at times have often not lined up with results, having lost four games already this season despite dominating the majority of play in some of them. Although they have held a lot of possession, at times this season they have suffered from being blunt in the final third against low-block style teams and susceptible to counter-attacks due to their high line and attacking style.

They certainly are an enthralling side to watch and are perhaps the most entertaining team in the league, but results will need to be slightly more consistent if they are to reach the ambitions of the club.

Conversely, Unai Emery has surpassed all expectations of fans across the country since taking over in October 2022, taking Villa from a team underachieving and flirting dangerously with relegation to a Champions League club beating Bayern Munich and level on points with Arsenal heading into this weekend. Currently fourth, Aston Villa have been phenomenal this season, losing only once in the league against Arsenal at home, a game that on another day could have gone in their favour if Ollie Watkins did not miss two sitters.

Scoreline Odds: Lowest Odds on a 1-1 stalemate

Draw 1-1 - 15/2 | Tottenham Win 2-1 - 8/1 | Aston Villa Win 2-1 - 14/1

Scoring the third joint-most goals (18) in the Premier League this season behind only Chelsea and Manchester City, Spurs have had no issues putting the ball in the back of the net in general, but have struggled against low-block sides at times. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have also been prolific in front of goal so far, scoring 16—only two behind the hosts.

Defensively though, both sides do not hold great records coming into this game, as only one goal conceded separates them, with Tottenham conceding 10 and the away side chipping 11.​​​​​​​

To win this game, Postecoglou's side will need to control the game and dominate the play, getting their creative outlets in James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski on the ball in dangerous areas as often as possible. For Emery's team, they will need to be defensively solid throughout the game, shutting off the spaces that Spurs players like to drift into, and transition quickly on Tottenham's high line with the pace and incisiveness of Leon Bailey, Morgan Rogers, and Ollie Watkins.

Goalscorer Odds: Both teams possess good options

Solanke - 6/4 | Richarlison - 8/5 | Watkins - 9/5 | Duran - 9/5

Dominic Solanke is favoured to be the most likely scorer in this game at 6/4 to score anytime, despite only scoring twice in the league since his big move in the summer, but his height and physical presence could offer Tottenham a more direct option if required.

Son Heung-Min also possesses great value to hit the back of the net in this match, as Tottenham's top scorer is a slight injury doubt heading into this affair but is valued at 6/1 to score first and 19/10 at anytime.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa's striker duo both hold identical odds heading into this weekend, as Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran are both favoured to be the side's most likely source of goals, at 6/1 to score first and 9/5 anytime. The pair hold nine goals between them in the Premier League so far, with Duran scoring four of those, each of which came from substitute appearances.

Prediction: Tottenham to recover from last weekend's blip in 2-1 victory

Postecoglou's men to edge a tight contest

This game is very likely to be a closely contested affair, due to the quality that both teams possess and the playstyles of the two sides. Tottenham will look to start the game on the front foot in front of their home supporters, and as always under Postecoglou, will be aiming to control possession high up the pitch, trying to score goals.

However, Emery is likely to set Aston Villa up to be very difficult to break down, cutting off the spaces that Spurs' attacking players like to drift into and using their own attacking quality to break on the home side quickly. Due to both sides' defensive records, it is plausible that both teams will score in this one, but Tottenham may just edge this one.

Both teams to score (4/9)

Match to end in 1-1 win draw (15/2)

Dominic Solanke to score first (5/1)

Ollie Watkins to score any time (9/5)

Manchester City are in serious danger of being forced to pay a higher fee than fellow suitors Real Madrid if they up the ante and attempt to lure Pedro Porro to the Etihad Stadium from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the campaign, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

The Sky Blues are currently contending with an injury crisis, with right-back Kyle Walker among those on the treatment table thanks to nursing a knee problem, and it has led to boss Pep Guardiola setting his sights on strengthening his options during upcoming transfer windows.

Although Txiki Begiristain is set to leave Manchester City when the campaign reaches its climax, allowing Hugo Viana to arrive as the director of football's replacement, he is working closely with the Spanish tactician to identify potential targets ahead of being able to head to the negotiating table.

Sky Blues Face Increased Demands for Porro

Tottenham keen to avoid selling right-back to Premier League rival

Manchester City are keeping an eye on Porro's situation after earmarking him as a possible recruit, according to GMS sources, but they are at risk of having to deal with a setback in their pursuit as Tottenham are poised to increase their demands if a Premier League rival comes calling for his services.

Spurs have slapped a £80million price tag on the Spain international as they are eager to keep him on board after making himself one of the first names on the team sheet under head coach Ange Postecoglou, and they are particularly keen to ensure they do not strengthen one of their top flight counterparts.

GMS sources have been informed that Manchester City could be tempted to raid Tottenham if an agreement appears possible after also luring Walker away from the north Londoners when they previously looked for a new first-choice right-back but, in a major twist, it is likely that they will have to contend with more lucrative terms than fellow admirers Real Madrid.

The Sky Blues' domestic rivals are in a strong negotiating position and under no pressure to sanction the big-money departure in the coming months as the 25-year-old's contract, which allows him to pocket £85,000-per-week in the capital, is not due to expire until the summer of 2028.

La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid have included Porro on their shortlist of targets ahead of the summer as they are determined to bring in a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal, GMS sources have learned, and Tottenham would prefer to see him walk away from the Premier League if he embarks on a fresh challenge.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Pedro Porro has faced Manchester City five times during his career, suffering three defeats and clinching two draws along the way

Porro Targeted Despite Development of Lewis

Guardiola keen to discover whether swoop would be possible

GMS sources have been told that Manchester City are keeping tabs on Porro due to being eager to add more experience to their squad and they will seriously consider attempting to pounce if there are indications that Tottenham are open to cashing in, but they remain very happy with academy graduate Rico Lewis' development.

Although the England international has benefited from Walker struggling to rediscover his best form and injuries, allowing him to make 14 appearances during the early stages of the campaign, that has not stopped Guardiola assessing his options and whether further competition is needed.

Tottenham are hopeful of keeping Porro in north London, GMS sources understand, but they have also not ruled out the possibility of being persuaded to give the green-light to a transfer as there is an awareness that his market value has increased since his arrival from Portuguese giants Sporting.

Spurs' stance has resulted in Manchester City remaining optimistic that an opportunity to reach an agreement could open up, but they are also looking to tie members of their current squad down to new contracts, with GMS sources recently revealing that they are aiming to convince Rodri to sign fresh terms after winning the Ballon d'Or.

Tottenham Hotspur have been obtaining detailed scouting reports on Dario Osorio's development and could force the Midtjylland star into making a significant decision over his future after being pinpointed as a potential Hotspur Way target for the summer, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Spurs were not afraid to splash the cash before the transfer window slammed shut in August, with Dominic Solanke becoming the most expensive acquisition in the north Londoners' history thanks to completing a £65million switch from Bournemouth, but boss Ange Postecoglou has wasted no time in seeking further recruits.

Fresh from keeping their Carabao Cup glory hopes alive by overcoming Manchester City in midweek, thanks to Pape Matar Sarr grabbing the winner with his third goal of the campaign, Tottenham have refused to rule out the possibility of luring Osorio to the capital in the coming months.

Spurs Running Rule Over Osorio's Capabilities

North Londoners aware mid-season switch remains unlikely

Tottenham have been sending members of their recruitment department on regular scouting missions to run the rule over Osorio, according to GMS sources, resulting in Postecoglou and technical director Johan Lange securing detailed reports as they contemplate whether he is capable of making an impact in the Premier League.

The winger has found the back of the net three times and registered a solitary assist over the course of 13 appearances in all competitions this season, resulting in Danish outfit Midtjylland being eager to retain his services as they go in search of silverware and progressing in the Europa League.

GMS sources have been informed that a January move for Osorio is not on the cards, leading to Tottenham being forced to remain patient as they go in search of fresh competition for Brennan Johnson, but there may be an opportunity to pounce at the end of the season if he continues showing signs of development in his current surroundings.

Spurs' key decision-makers are aware that the 20-year-old will not be seeking a significant salary if they manage to get the deal over the line as he is currently on terms worth £5,400-per-week at the MCH Arena, meaning there would be room in the budget for Postecoglou to secure further reinforcements.

Osorio has caught Tottenham's eye with his style of play and 'lovely left foot', GMS sources have learned, as he usually cuts inside from the right flank and is also showing versatility by becoming more accustomed to being deployed through the middle as Midtjylland go in search of goals.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Dario Osorio has got his name on the scoresheet 22 times during the first 94 outings of his senior club career

Brentford Among Sides Competing for Osorio

Frank poised to go head-to-head with Postecoglou in pursuit

GMS sources have been told that Tottenham are in danger of facing stiff competition for Osorio's signature as Premier League rivals Brentford are in a similar position thanks to also sending scouts to watch him in action on a regular basis, allowing them to gain details on how he would fit into chief Thomas Frank's preferred system.

Title-chasers Liverpool seriously considered landing the Chile international during the summer, with sporting director Richard Hughes lining up a bid worth up to £8million before seeing him remain on Midtjylland's books, and the Merseyside giants' links are refusing to go away.

Manchester United and La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid have also been among the admirers circling, GMS sources understand, but Tottenham are at a more advanced stage of their pursuit due to having representatives in attendance to see Osorio flourishing in the Danish Superliga.

Tottenham could be forced to contend with further competition from the Bundesliga for the exciting talent, GMS sources recently revealed, and he is edging towards having a potentially career-defining decision to make over whether to embark on a fresh challenge in the coming months.

Tottenham Hotspur are expecting admirers to test their resolve by lodging loan bids for Archie Gray when the transfer window reopens for business at the turn of the year after the summer recruit has struggled to secure regular game time under boss Ange Postecoglou, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Having seen Leeds United miss out on promotion to the Premier League, thanks to a Championship play-off final defeat to Southampton in May, Spurs took advantage by forking out a £30million fee to win the race for the Whites' academy graduate as they aimed to upgrade their squad.

Dominic Solanke also became Tottenham's club-record signing after completing a £65million switch from Bournemouth during a busy recruitment period, but interested parties have been put on red alert due to Gray being unable to make himself one of the first names on the team sheet in north London.

Spurs Anticipating Winter Proposals for Gray

Premier League and Championship outfits keeping tabs on teenager

Tottenham are bracing themselves for Gray to be the subject of loan offers in January, according to GMS sources, with Premier League and Championship suitors contemplating whether to test the waters with a proposal which would see him spend the second half of the season in new surroundings.

Ahead of Spurs' Carabao Cup fourth round clash with Manchester City on Wednesday, the England under-21 international has been limited to just 393 minutes of action in all competitions since his summer arrival and has not been handed any starts in his preferred midfield role.

GMS sources have been informed that key figures within Tottenham are anticipating being forced to make a decision on whether to consider letting Gray leave on a temporary basis as intermediaries have warned that admirers are putting plans in place to ask about his availability after finding himself behind the likes of Yves Bissouma in the pecking order.

Spurs are in a strong negotiating position ahead of potentially having to contend with offers as the teenager committed his long-term future to the club when he penned a six-year contract worth £75,000-per-week upon his switch from Leeds, but a loan departure could be seen as a suitable option for all parties to build his experience.

The amount of game time Gray can expect in the second half of the season if he remains at Tottenham beyond the winter transfer window remains unclear, GMS sources have learned, which comes as a significant blow as he was hopeful of making a telling impact after becoming a big-money recruit.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Archie Gray boasted 92 per cent accuracy when Tottenham Hotspur came from behind to knock Coventry City out of the Carabao Cup in the third round

Gray Remaining Highly-Rated by Postecoglou

North Londoners have not made final decision on midfielder's future

GMS sources have been told that Gray is still highly-rated by Tottenham despite being regularly overlooked by Postecoglou, and there is no suggestion that they will be open to him embarking on a fresh challenge if interested parties offer a route out of his current surroundings during the January transfer window.

The 18-year-old headed to the capital following a breakthrough season at Leeds, where he showcased his versatility over the course of 52 outings in all competitions, and Spurs are adamant he will prove to be a shrewd investment as he looks to highlight that he deserves to be among the first names on the team sheet.

Tottenham have been keen for Gray to rediscover his best form after being delighted at fighting off stiff competition for his signature during the summer, GMS sources recently revealed, and he may be handed an opportunity to impress in a Carabao Cup clash with Manchester City on Wednesday.

Tottenham Hotspur star Timo Werner is in the frame to return to the starting line-up for the Carabao Cup fourth round tie against Manchester City despite boss Ange Postecoglou leaning towards offloading him at the end of the season instead of taking advantage of keeping him at Hotspur Way on a permanent basis, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Having not been afraid to splash the cash during the summer transfer window, with Dominic Solanke becoming the north Londoners' club-record signing thanks to completing a £65million switch from Bournemouth, Spurs are heading into the contest against the Sky Blues looking to aid their push to end a long-term wait for silverware.

But Tottenham are preparing for the meeting with Manchester City after a setback at the hands of Crystal Palace, who notched their first win of the domestic campaign after initially equalling their worst start to a Premier League season, and Postecoglou is poised to make alterations to his side.

Postecoglou Keen to Give Werner Opportunity

Spurs preparing to face Manchester City in Carabao Cup

Postecoglou is keen to hand Werner an opportunity to impress from the start as Tottenham aim to overcome Manchester City in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, according to GMS sources, despite it appearing increasingly likely that his long-term future lies away from the north Londoners.

Having made a quickfire return to the capital after spending the second half of last season on loan with Spurs, thanks to a fresh loan agreement which includes a buy option worth close to £9million being agreed with RB Leipzig in the summer, the Germany international has been forced to contend with restricted game time.

But GMS sources have been informed that Werner is on course to regain a starting berth when Manchester City visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with him on track to profit after captain Heung-min Son and fellow winger Wilson Odobert have been ruled out of the contest through injury.

The 28-year-old Champions League winner is preparing to face Pep Guardiola's Sky Blues having been limited to just 445 minutes of action in all competitions this season, while one of his five starts came when Spurs sealed a late comeback victory over Championship outfit Coventry City in the last round of the competition.

Although Werner is on track to be deployed on the left flank, it is a shock twist as GMS sources recently revealed that he is in line to return to parent club Leipzig instead of his move being made permanent at the end of the season as Tottenham are actively scouting alternative options after Postecoglou has gone in search of adding further firepower.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Timo Werner only made nine passes when he played the final 28 minutes after coming on as a substitute during Tottenham Hotspur's 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace last weekend

Moore to Miss Out on Third Consecutive Start

Teenager could be rested after breaking into first-team picture

GMS sources have been told that there are doubts over whether academy graduate Mikey Moore will be handed the chance to make a third consecutive start for Tottenham even though he built on an eye-catching performance against AZ Alkmaar when they headed to Crystal Palace last weekend.

The teenager was compared to Neymar by teammate James Maddison after making a telling impact as Spurs maintained their 100 per cent winning record in the Europa League earlier this month, but Postecoglou is desperate to ensure that he is not under too much pressure at this early stage of his career.

Moore's absence from the starting line-up will play into Werner's hands, particularly with Son and Odobert not being available for the Manchester City encounter, and GMS sources understand that there is determination to progress as the Carabao Cup is being viewed as one of Tottenham's best chances to clinch silverware.

Even though there are significant doubts over whether the former Chelsea man will still be in north London beyond the end of the season, having racked up six goal contributions over the course of his two spells on Spurs' books, he is preparing to get the nod as Postecoglou is unlikely to take major risks when selecting who to bring into the fray.

Everton icon Leon Osman noted that Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou seemed 'frosty' after his side's loss to Crystal Palace in the Premier League - with the loss recording Spurs' fourth defeat of the top-flight campaign in just nine games to put a dent in their Champions League hopes.

Jean-Philippe Mateta's first-half strike was enough to hand Palace their first win of the campaign and down Tottenham, who had just three shots on target throughout the entire game. Postecoglou is usually a talkative character when it comes to post-match interviews, however, the loss saw his side fail to make ground in the league table and Osman noticed something about his demeanour.

Osman: Postecoglou 'Looked Frosty' After Tottenham Loss

The Australian boss ses his side sit four points off the Champions League spots

Speaking on Optus Sport, Everton hero Osman questioned where Postecoglou's head was at following the loss in south London, stating that the Spurs gaffer has 'never been as frosty' after a game before - stating that the potential lack of effort and fight shown by Spurs may be the reason as to why he had his guard up.

Osman said:

“You show character in those moments, and I’ve never seen him as frosty as that in interviews.

"You can be outplayed at times, the opposition can show more quality, but they better not outwork us or show more bottle, and that seems like where he’s very disappointed with his team."

It wasn't Tottenham's best performance by all means, and as an attack-minded coach, Postecoglou will have been disappointed that Tottenham didn't score in the game for just the second time this season in all competitions, with their previous blank coming against Arsenal.

The result leaves Tottenham in eighth place in the Premier League table, five points away from the top four which will be their desired goal come the end of the season - but also just four points from 16th.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Tottenham have only qualified for the Champions League in one of their previous five seasons.

With tricky ties against Aston Villa and Manchester City coming in November in the top-flight, alongside tough Europa League clashes against Galatasaray and Roma, the pressure will be on Postecoglou to pick up a positive result in one of those four games - and especially against the home clash against Ipswich Town, which is sandwiched in the middle of those, they will need to pick up a win to keep their Champions League qualification hopes moving.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that forward Wilson Odobert has suffered a serious injury setback after struggling with fitness over the last few months.

The tricky attacker arrived at Hotspur Way during the summer transfer window, joining the club from Championship side Burnley. It's been a difficult start to life in north London due to injuries, and Postecoglou has now provided a worrying update.

Speaking to the press on Tuesday afternoon, Postecoglou has confirmed that Odobert has suffered an injury setback and it's looking like a serious one. The Australian manager has also added that Heung-min Son is set to miss the Carabao Cup clash with Manchester City, but they are aiming to have him back in time for the weekend...

"Son is almost fit but probably from our perspective we'll aim for the weekend. We're quite confident he'll be right for the weekend. The only other one missing out which is a bit of a disappointment is Wilson, who has had a setback during the week and it seems like it is a serious one so we're just waiting for more information. From the weekend everybody is ok and Djed is back training."

Although Spurs are desperate to achieve trophy success, Postecoglou understandably has one eye on the Premier League at the weekend. The north London outfit face Aston Villa on Sunday before a trip to Galatasaray in the Europa League next week. For Postecoglou, it's imperative that they can get Son back fit for the hectic schedule upcoming.

Odobert is yet to make a real impact at Tottenham, but it will be a major disappointment for Postecoglou and his team. The former Burnley man was brought in to be an additional option in attack, but he's barely been seen by Tottenham supporters.

Last time out with both Son and Odobert out injured, Tottenham started with a front three of Mikey Moore, Dominic Solanke, and Brennan Johnson. Richarlison has also recently returned from injury, while Timo Werner is another option for Postecoglou in the forward line.