FanSided World Football
·29 November 2024
FanSided World Football
·29 November 2024
Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min has faced a challenging start to the season in terms of finding the back of the net.
The South Korean forward scored a penalty in Spurs' 2-2 draw with Roma in the Europa League, but this goal was only his fourth in 13 appearances across all competitions.
It’s been a frustrating period for the 31-year-old, with his last goal coming in mid-October, and his struggles in front of goal have raised questions about his form.
Tottenham Hotspur v AS Roma - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 / Marc Atkins/GettyImages
While Son has had several good opportunities, including three shots inside the box against Roma, his lack of composure in key moments has been evident.
Despite the quality he possesses and his consistent goal-scoring ability over the years, Postecoglou believes the injury setbacks Son has dealt with this season are a significant factor in his current dip in form.
As quoted by Football London, speaking after the Roma game, Tottenham's manager Ange Postecoglou explained that Son’s struggles are largely down to the hamstring and thigh problems he’s battled through in the last few months.
“I don’t know if he’s lacking confidence. Sonny’s had a disrupted year for us, so that doesn’t help,” said Postecoglou.
The manager further pointed out that while Son is getting into the right positions and having the right chances, his fitness is still on the mend.
This recovery process is crucial, as Postecoglou emphasized that a fully fit Son is essential for the team's success moving forward.
Postecoglou also addressed the team’s overall performance, stating that while the chances were there, a lack of composure in crucial moments prevented Spurs from winning the game.
Tottenham hit the woodwork three times and saw a couple of efforts cleared off the line, indicating they were close to finishing the game off.
The manager also acknowledged that the team's struggles in front of goal were not limited to Son, with several players missing key opportunities throughout the match.
The Spurs will prepare for their next Premier League match against Fulham, so there is hope that Son will continue to regain his sharpness in front of goal.
His performance is pivotal if Tottenham are to challenge for trophies and secure a Champions League spot this season.
Fortunately for the team, Brennan Johnson has stepped up as a reliable goal scorer, but with limited options in attack, Postecoglou will need Son at his best if Spurs are to compete at the highest level.
With a demanding schedule ahead, Tottenham's hopes of a successful season rest on the shoulders of players like Son, who, when fit, can make all the difference.
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