Exclusive: ‘Harsh’ Tottenham truth emerges about Son Heung-min
Tottenham Hotspur just cannot find that winning formula to restore some pride into their league season as star players continue to underperform.
Son Heung-min has been among those harshly criticised of late, with some Tottenham fans even demanding the captain’s contract is terminated.
James Maddison has also attracted criticism for his indifferent displays, with the duo routinely dropped by Ange Postecoglou in recent Premier League matches.
The under-fire manager may insist this is down to the obvious priority of attempting to win the Europa League, but the next European tie doesn’t arrive until next month and surely a pair of their calibre cannot just be rested until they take on Eintracht Frankfurt (10 April).
Tottenham duo scathed by broadcaster in ‘harsh truth’ verdict
Son and Maddison have been far from the first names on Postecoglou’s teamsheet in recent weeks, which is a far cry from the previous reputations the duo had in North London.
This is particularly relevant for the former, who has garnered heavy criticism since his Tottenham contract extension trigger was activated until 2026 as his performances have largely declined.
The drop in performance levels from Son and Maddison has not always been tolerated by Postecoglou, albeit they have tended to be drafted back in for the vital Europa League ties in an interesting case.
TV commentator and football analysis expert Ian Darke, speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, has delivered the “harsh truth” that the pair have merely had poor seasons and this is why they have been dropped, despite combining for 30 goal contributions in the Premier League in 2024-25 so far.
“I think Postecoglou’s decisions here are a reflection of the poor seasons Son and Maddison have had,” Darke said.
“We’re still waiting for Maddison to flourish and be the player we thought he could be for Tottenham. That’s the harsh truth – we only get glimpses.
“As for Son, he hasn’t delivered the way he used to deliver. When they’re getting left out here and there, they can’t complain.”
Postecoglou needs pair at their best to save his job
Daniel Levy is watching the remainder of a horrendous campaign intently to see if it can turn on a sixpence and see Tottenham lift their first trophy in 17 years.
Should Postecoglou deliver the Europa League this season, he will not only have broken a huge duck on the Lilywhite side of North London, but also stayed true to his promise of silverware in his second season at a club.
| Tottenham talismen | Appearances | Starts |
| Son Heung-min | 26 | 21 |
| James Maddison | 27 | 17 |
It would certainly go plenty of the way to vindicating the Australian, though even a trophy would be unlikely to change the minds of the entire support-base.
Son and Maddison will be key cogs between now and the end of the season, and must deliver for their manager and supporters as the season staggers on.