Tottenham will head into a League Cup Round of 16 match against Manchester City on Wednesday, with a couple of players missing including Heung-min Son.
This cup fixture presents Spurs with an important opportunity to advance, though manager Ange Postecoglou faces lineup complications due to key player absences.
Ange was hopeful that Heung-min Son, who missed the Crystal Palace game through an injury, would be back fit for the game against City.
However, Ange confirmed in his pre-match presser today that the Tottenham captain will miss the clash.
He also revealed the news about Wilson Odobert suffering yet another setback in his injury, which will now keep him out for longer.
With both Son and Odobert out, Postecoglou has hinted that he will have Richarlison fill in on the left wing.
Richarlison to replace Son?
Postecoglou suggested Richarlison as a strong option to replace Son, noting the Brazilian’s experience in the left-wing position from his prior matches.
He emphasised that Richarlison’s recent recovery from a knee injury has steadily boosted his fitness, positioning him as a reliable choice to step up in Son’s absence.
Postecoglou highlighted that Richarlison’s progressive return to form will allow him to make meaningful contributions across both domestic and European competitions without overburdening him.
He said (quotes via Football London):
“I think Richy has obviously played a lot of his football on the left and he’s definitely an option there for us and an option through the middle as well. He’s getting some good match minutes now so hopefully next couple of weeks we’ve still got a good game schedule.”
“Like I said, he’s only just getting his season started so the more we can expose him without overburdening him in the early stages he’ll be able to contribute even more.”
Chance for Richarlison to seize the opportunity
Richarlison has seen his role limited due to his injury issues as well as the addition of Dominic Solanke as the new striker.
However, injuries to the left-wingers has cleared the path for the former Everton man to seize this opportunity and demonstrate his value to the team.
He recently reaffirmed his form by netting a crucial penalty in Tottenham’s 1-0 win over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League, displaying his composure under pressure and attacking instincts.
However, he did come under criticism later on, for forcing Maddison to let him take the penalty.
His strong performance will be essential as Spurs strive to press City on home turf.
For Richarlison, this clash against City offers more than just game time—it’s a chance to secure his spot in Postecoglou’s lineup for the remainder of the season.
