Tottenham vs Frankfurt: Son Out, Postecoglou Undeterred

Tottenham's Ange Postecoglou confirms Son Heung-min's absence due to injury ahead of Europa League match against Frankfurt. Read more.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed that Son Heung-min will miss the Europa League return leg against Eintracht Frankfurt due to a foot injury. “Sonny didn't travel in the end, he's the only one that misses out,” Postecoglou said.

Son has been battling the injury for a few weeks and had tried to play through it. “He's been battling with his foot problem for a few weeks now and managed (to play) through it. He trained the last few days, he tried to train yesterday and it wasn't right so we made the decision to leave him at home to allow him to recuperate,” Postecoglou explained.

The Europa League return leg between Tottenham and Eintracht Frankfurt is set to be intense, with the winner advancing to the final four after a 1-1 draw in London. Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou faces pressure following the team's league struggles, but he remains focused on the Europa League match.

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Postecoglou expressed his indifference to personal criticism, saying, “If you don't think I'm a good coach that's not going to change because of what happens tomorrow.” He added, “We've got a great opportunity tomorrow and I'm not going to let that slip by without fighting tooth and nail,” highlighting his determination to lead his team to victory.

Frankfurt's Focus on Europa League

Frankfurt coach Dino Toppmoeller stated that Tottenham's recent 4-2 loss to Wolverhampton “absolutely no role” in their preparation for the Europa League match, as Spurs' focus is solely on the European competition. Toppmoeller also downplayed suggestions that Frankfurt, currently third in the Bundesliga, were favorites against 15th-placed Tottenham, saying, “It doesn't matter whether any team is the favourite or not.”

Penalty Shootout Confidence

Toppmoeller expressed confidence about potential penalty shootouts, having won the Europa League in 2022 by defeating Rangers on penalties. “I have absolutely no fear of a shootout, because I have total confidence in the boys. And if it comes to penalties, we'll win on penalties,” he said.

Goalkeeper Update 

Frankfurt captain and goalkeeper Kevin Trapp will miss the match due to injury, with Kaua Santos set to deputise in goal. Despite this setback, Toppmoeller remains focused on securing a win against Tottenham.