Ange Postecoglou key updates ahead of Tottenham vs Qarabag

Tottenham Hotspur are gearing up for their return to European football as they prepare to host Qarabag on Thursday evening in the UEFA Europa League.

The North London club haven’t played a European fixture since March 2023, when they were eliminated from the Champions League by AC Milan.

Now, under manager Ange Postecoglou, Spurs are eager to kick off their Europa League campaign with a strong performance at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Speaking to the press at Hotspur Way, Postecoglou provided key updates on his squad ahead of the group stage opener.

One of the notable absences for Spurs will be central defender Cristian Romero, who is serving a one-match suspension following his red card in that fateful second leg against Milan.

While Romero has been a key figure for Tottenham in the Premier League, Radu Dragusin is expected to slot into the backline in his absence.

Ange Postecoglou key updates ahead of Tottenham vs Qarabag

Postecoglou also confirmed that both Djed Spence and Sergio Reguilon are ineligible for this fixture. Spence has not been registered for the Europa League squad, while Reguilon is out due to fitness concerns.

In addition, Richarlison and Wilson Odobert are sidelined with injuries, with Odobert picking up a hamstring problem during the recent Carabao Cup win over Coventry City.

On the positive side, the Spurs manager confirmed that there were no new injury concerns following the weekend’s 3-1 victory over Brentford.

"We’re looking good. Nothing from the weekend in terms of injuries, everyone pulled up really well, so no issues there," said Postecoglou. The team seems to be in good shape heading into this European clash.

As for the starting lineup, Postecoglou is likely to rotate some of his squad, giving opportunities to younger players. Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, and Mikey Moore are all expected to feature from the start.

Additionally, Spurs are required to name 12 substitutes in line with Europa League regulations, so several academy players could make the bench.

While Tottenham will be focused on their Europa League opener, Postecoglou’s men will also be keeping an eye on Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford.