Gaffer offers key insight into Lucas Bergvall’s Europa League final chances as youngster battles to prove fitness against Man Utd
Tottenham are just one game away from completing what could be remembered as both their best and worst season in decades. Despite enduring one of their poorest domestic campaigns, Spurs now have the chance to end it on a high. On Wednesday evening, they face Manchester United—another side enduring a similarly dismal league season. Both clubs have underperformed significantly, marking their worst domestic showings in years.
The outcome at San Mamés could have major consequences for both managers, regardless of who lifts the Europa League trophy. Ange Postecoglou, in particular, finds himself on shaky ground. Many believe Tottenham’s European run is the main reason he’s still in charge, after a season where injuries and inconsistency have left his squad severely tested.
With many injuries throughout the squad, several Tottenham players have ended up playing far more minutes than intended this season. For example, Archie Gray has played far more minutes than expected, and for much of the time he’s played he’s had to play at centre-back, which he can play, but is not his preferred position.
Lucas Bergvall is another one who has stepped up. Since moving over (from Sweden) last summer, the Swede has fully rediscovered himself in the first team in his debut season in the top level of the European game. However, earlier this month he got an ankle injury (in training) which looks like it will end his season.
Ange Postecoglou did not rule out the hope of the midfielder coming back in time for when they play Manchester United, but stated he was doing everything he could with his recovery to be available.
Bergvall is one of the key players, this season
Following the defeat to Aston Villa, Postecoglou emphasized the significance of Son Heung-min’s return during the post-match press conference, as stated by Football.London. With important players missing, Postecoglou noted how important it is to be able to have the club captain back and referenced how Madders, Deki, and Lucas Bergvall have taken on leadership roles in recent weeks.
He continued by stating that Son’s return provides experience to a side, which has been much younger than their opponents of late, and highlighted how crucial it is to have experienced players available to support the squad.
The Australian Coach speaking on the Post-Game presser, issued update about Lucas Bergvall
“It’s important,” Postecoglou told reporters. “Especially when we’ve lost some key players in recent times. Madders is also one of the leaders, and Deki, and Lucas in the last three weeks.”
“Now getting Sonny back at least gives us another experienced player. I think the last two or three fixtures our average age has been three or four years younger than the opposition. You can see that at times so just having another experienced player available is great for the team.”
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Bergvall being recognised as one of Tottenham’s key players this season speaks volumes about his impact and rapid development. His potential absence in the Europa League final at San Mames could be a significant blow for Spurs. Based on recent reports, it appears Odobert is expected to step into the central attacking role for the club’s biggest game of the campaign. All that’s left now is to hope for a swift recovery for the talented Swede.