Ange Postecoglou reveals whether Son Heung-min will feature against Aston Villa on Friday

Son Heung-min is in contention to get minutes under his belt when Tottenham take on Aston Villa in the Premier League on Friday

Tottenham Hotspur have endured rotten luck regarding injuries this season, and the end of the campaign has been no different. Several Spurs players have faced lengthy spells on the sidelines, forcing Ange Postecoglou to constantly making alterations to his starting XI.

The Australian has been dealt several injury blows leading up to the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United on May 21, with star midfielders James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski both injured. Recent rumours suggested Lucas Bergvall could miraculously recover from his ankle injury and be available for the European fixture, but the Spurs gaffer officially ruled him out of contention on Thursday.

On Sunday, Tottenham fans witnessed the return of Son Heung-min against Crystal Palace. A foot injury had kept the Lilywhites’ skipper out of action for seven games, but he returned on the bench in the 2-0 home defeat to Palace. He came off the bench and played 32 minutes.

Ange Postecoglou faced the media on Thursday afternoon. Ahead of the trip to Aston Villa on Friday, he was asked whether Son Heung-min would start the game at Villa Park or not. To which, he replied (h/t Football London):

Son has struggled with form and fitness this season. He may have registered 11 goals and 12 assists across all competitions, but the sharpness and elusive movement behind the defenders has barely been witnessed. At 32, the South Asian looks past his prime and not up to the scratch now to start games week in and week out in the Premier League.

Yet, having him back before the Europa League final is a major plus. Truly, Son’s influence extends well beyond his on-field output. He is regarded as a leader and motivator within a youthful dressing Spurs room, mentoring the next generation with his experience and presence. The versatile forward needs minutes in his tank before the big game against Man United, and he will get that at Villa.

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Having a fully fit and motivated Son start the Europa League final in Bilbao on May 21 is exactly what all Tottenham fans will be wanting to watch.