Tottenham star issues rallying cry as Spurs prepare for season defining clash

Micky van de Ven is copnfident Tottenham Hotspur will prevail in Europe

Tottenham Hotspur have endured a dismal domestic campaign, currently languishing in 16th place in the Premier League, their worst league performance in decades. However, in Europe, the narrative has been markedly different. Spurs have thrived in the Europa League, recently dismantling Bodo/Glimt 5-1 on aggregate to secure a place in the final against Manchester United.

Despite the contrasting fortunes between league and Europe, the North London side remain undaunted. Speaking in an interview relayed by Goal, Micky van de Ven expressed confidence ahead of the May 21 showdown, stating that Spurs will approach the final without fear. For Tottenham, the Europa League has become more than just a shot at silverware; it represents a chance to salvage a turbulent season, secure Champions League football, and potentially change the course of their immediate future.

Manchester United have been ruthless in the Europa League this season, storming through the competition unbeaten and dismantling Athletic Club 7-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals. The final against Tottenham Hotspur is set to be a fiercely contested battle, but the pressure arguably weighs heavier on the North London side.

United have enjoyed European success in recent years, including their 2017 Europa League triumph under José Mourinho. In contrast, Spurs haven’t lifted a continental trophy in over four decades, making the stakes incredibly high. For Tottenham, the final represents more than just silverware, it’s a chance to salvage a disastrous domestic campaign and end their agonizing trophy drought.

Van De Ven and the boys are ready to face United at Bilbao

Micky van de Ven speaking in an interview as relayed by Goal has stated that everything rests on the team winning the Europa League in order for it to be deemed a successful season for Tottenham. The Dutch defender has been on outstanding form since his return from injury and is adamant that the team are travelling to Bilbao with absolute belief. Micky admitted that Manchester United have performed as a dominant force in Europe this season, but he is not worried saying “Finals are funny” and believes the team must not play with fear, if they are to stop the decades long trophy drought.

The Dutchman is confident that the team will come out victorious

“Everybody goes to Bilbao to win a trophy. It has been a tough season and it will only be successful if we win the Europa League and get the trophy,” the centre-back said. “[United] played Athletic Club, a really good team, and it was 7-1 over the two games.”

“So they’ve also showed some real quality in Europe. We know it’s going to be a different game, everything can happen in a final. But we’re not going there with fear, of course. We know our qualities, we know it’s going to be a difficult game, Man United showed their quality in this European campaign.”

If Tottenham Hotspur can maintain their belief in themselves and in Ange Postecoglou, they stand a genuine chance of lifting the Europa League trophy in Bilbao. But before that decisive clash against Manchester United on May 21, the focus shifts back to the Premier League.

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The Lilywhites are desperate to salvage some pride in their remaining fixtures, starting with this weekend’s clash against Crystal Palace. Currently languishing in 16th place, Spurs will be aiming to secure all three points to lift themselves out of the bottom five and finish the domestic campaign on a stronger note.

For Postecoglou, it’s a delicate balancing act, ensuring his side remains sharp and motivated without risking key players ahead of the final. While the Europa League represents Tottenham’s last shot at silverware this season, a positive end to their Premier League run could provide a vital boost in confidence heading into Bilbao.