Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou faces the tough task of managing a squad plagued by injuries and suspensions, all while maintaining form in the Premier League.
As the festive fixtures approach, one decision has sparked curiosity among fans—why one of Spurs' most consistent contributors has been relegated to the bench.
Despite the challenges, Postecoglou has reassured supporters that his squad management strategy is designed to protect the team in the long run.
His latest comments shed light on how he plans to balance minutes while ensuring Tottenham remain competitive.
Ange Postecoglou promises Brennan Johnson will see more game time
The decision to shuffle players may have left some puzzled, but it highlights Postecoglou's intent to navigate the busy schedule without overburdening key members of the squad.
Brennan Johnson has been a standout performer for Tottenham this season, with 10 goals and three assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
However, the Wales international has gone six games without scoring, and this dip in form has coincided with his recent benching.
According to The Boy Hotspur, during a Christmas Eve press conference, Postecoglou addressed Johnson’s situation: “Brennan just needs to keep doing what he’s doing, I’ve had Deki (Dejan Kulusevski) there and he’s done really well and scoring goals."
Postecoglou’s comments suggest that rotation is essential to prevent further injuries in a squad already stretched thin.
Despite limited minutes in recent matches, Johnson has continued to contribute, even providing an assist in Tottenham’s 6-3 loss to Liverpool.
The manager reassured fans and Johnson that the winger’s return to the starting lineup is imminent: “Brennan will get his minutes.”
Tottenham players' medical update
In addition to managing Johnson’s playing time, Postecoglou offered positive updates on squad fitness.
Destiny Udogie, who was deemed not fully fit against Liverpool, is expected to be ready for the Boxing Day clash with Nottingham Forest.
Furthermore, Rodrigo Bentancur’s return from suspension provides a timely boost to the team’s midfield options.
Postecoglou confirmed: "Destiny was on the bench but wasn’t 100% quite right and should be right. Bentancur is available after his suspension. That’s kind of it for now.”
With Tottenham sitting just outside the European spots, managing player workload will be crucial as they aim to climb the Premier League table.
Johnson’s contributions, paired with the squad’s growing depth, could prove vital in the coming weeks.