Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) is returning later than expected.
Tottenham tied 1-1 in their away match against West Ham in the 35th round of the 2024-2025 season English Premier League (EPL) held at London Stadium in the United Kingdom on the 4th (Korea time). Son Heung-min was left out of the lineup.
His absence had been anticipated.
In a press conference held two days before the kickoff against West Ham, manager Ange Postecoglou noted, 'Son Heung-min has not yet participated in team training. He is currently undergoing individual training,' implying his absence.
Son Heung-min suffered a foot injury during the first leg of the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) against Eintracht Frankfurt on the 11th of last month. He started the match and played for 80 minutes, but has since missed six consecutive official matches.
The uncertainty regarding his return is raising concerns among fans.
Tottenham is set to face Bodo/Glimt (Norway) in the away second leg of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) semifinals on the 9th. They won the first leg at home 3-1.
Postecoglou said, 'Son Heung-min's physical condition is gradually improving. We will decide on his participation in the second leg of the UEL semifinals with time.'
Having won by two goals at home, they hold an advantageous position for reaching the finals, but it is not a situation where they can feel secure yet. If the 'ace' Son Heung-min plays away, his mere presence can be a threat to the opponent. However, since they cannot yet confirm his participation, Tottenham's concerns are understandably mounting.
Fans hope that Son Heung-min will recover quickly and be with the team in the finals.
In the match against West Ham, Mathis Tel started in place of Son Heung-min and led the attack. He showcased his presence by assisting Odobert's opening goal in the 15th minute of the first half.
Tel played the full 90 minutes and touched the ball 53 times, recording decent statistics with 2 shots, 1 chance created, and 2 successful dribbles.
However, the detailed metrics left something to be desired. His pass success rate was 63% (15 successful out of 24 attempts), and all 4 of his attempted crosses were unsuccessful. He lost possession 2 times.
Postecoglou expressed a positive evaluation, stating, 'I am giving Tel many roles. In the absence of Son Heung-min, he is contributing significantly to the team by alternating between the flanks and the center. His tactical adaptation is also gradually getting better.'
With their relegation secured, Tottenham is focusing more on winning the UEL rather than the league. It remains to be seen if Son Heung-min can lend his strength to the team at the last moment.
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