Tottenham Hotspur overturned a first-leg 1-0 deficit, defeating AZ Alkmaar 3-1 in North London to seal a place in the quarter-final of the Europa League.
The match was a coming-of-age game for several Spurs stars. Attacker Wilson Odobert scored twice, and James Maddison added the gloss with a well-taken goal.
Tottenham are still determined to salvage something from this disappointing season, and winning the Europa League would be an unbelievable achievement.
However, Tottenham must turn their attention to Fulham this weekend as they lock horns at Craven Cottage. Spurs still have several injury concerns, but one will be particularly worrisome.
The only dent in the 3-1 win over AZ was when Spurs midfielder Lucas Bergvall had to come off later in the game. The 19-year-old enjoyed a superb game but looked like he had picked up a knock.
Fortunately, Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed that Bergvall only had a cramp and is fine for the Fulham game. When asked if it was a cramp, Postecoglou said (via Football London), “Yeah, yeah, he is fine.”
Bergvall has been impressing in the Spurs engine room and received plenty of praise from his boss for his recent showings.
“He is also an outstanding technical player,” Postecoglou said. “I think his technical proficiency is still his greatest asset. He is growing. You’ve got to remember he has only just turned 19.
“He is still a very young man, and if he keeps building up physically as well, to the standard the Premier League, particularly in that midfield position, you need, if you have that physical ability and that technical proficiency, then you’ve got a decent player on your hands.”
Spurs need a defensive midfielder
While Bergvall has been a revelation playing deep in midfield, his best qualities shine when he is allowed to push forward and influence attacking play.
However, with Tottenham lacking a defensive midfielder to anchor the midfield, Bergvall has often been tasked with additional defensive duties, which can limit his attacking contributions.
Spurs must consider reinforcing their midfield with a strong, natural defensive midfielder who can provide balance and stability.
Someone who can shield the backline and win duels would improve the team defensively and allow Bergvall to express himself in an advanced role – Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma are not built for that.
With the right midfield structure, Tottenham can unlock Bergvall’s full potential and take their overall game to the next level.