Micky van de Ven’s availability is a big boost for Tottenham vs Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur are now looking to return to action with a bang on Sunday in the North London Derby against Arsenal.
The game before the international break turned out to be a frustrating one as Ange Postecoglou’s side were beaten 2-1 by Newcastle United at St James’ Park. This meant Spurs could only collect four points from opening three Premier League games.
The Lilywhites have the opportunity to get their season back on track when they host Arsenal, and given our arch-rivals will not be up to full strength due to suspension and injuries to key players, there is no better time to play them and get all three points.
Tottenham have received a double injury boost ahead of the game with Ange Postecoglou confirming both Micky van de Ven and Dominic Solanke are fit to face the Gunners. Club-record signing Dominic Solanke missed the last two games with an ankle problem while Micky van de Ven sat out the Newcastle United fixture with a knee issue.
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Speaking on talkSPORT alongside Andy Goldstein, former Spurs striker Darren Bent feels Van de Ven’s availability for the derby is extremely crucial for Big Ange’s side.
“I think Van de Ven is crucial because of the way they play – that front foot, high energy, halfway line,” said Bent.
“Just because he allows them to play that high line because he knows his recovery speed is, and we are not blessed with blistering pace as a centre-forward. So, I think he is key.”
Bent is absolutely spot on! Van de Ven has emerged as one of the exciting young defenders in the Premier League, blessed with an incredible burst of pace and athleticism. The Netherlands international is one of the fastest defenders in world football, with his explosive pace allowing Spurs to play a high defensive line.
With pacey full-backs Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro around as well, that highline which Spurs have employed under Postecoglou allows them to squeeze spaces and suffocate the opposition. There is always a downside to it as Big Ange’s often remain vulnerable to quick breaks or an inch-perfect ball over the top that unlocks the defence.
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This is where Van de Ven’s presence helps the team, allowing Tottenham to play aggressively and on the front foot with a high defensive line. Radu Dragusin did well in the 2-1 away defeat to Newcastle, but Postecoglou should be delighted to have Van de Ven back for the high-voltage clash against our bitterest rivals.
