Liverpool v Tottenham: Huge injury boost emerges ahead of EFL Cup tie
Micky van de Ven is “likely” to start for Tottenham against Liverpool in Thursday’s EFL Cup semi-final, Ange Postecoglou has said.
BBC Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella posted on BlueSky (2 February) from Postecoglou’s post-match press conference after Spurs’ 2-0 victory over Brentford, in which he gave an update on Van de Ven.
The Dutchman was absent from the Lilywhites’ squad for Sunday’s (2 February) victory in West London as Postecoglou looks to manage his minutes, but Van de Ven is set to be back in the starting XI at Anfield.
In quotes relayed by Kinsella, Postecoglou said: “I think the club is still looking there for opportunities. “We’re still a little bit thin defensively I think.”
Kinsella then added: “But Van de Ven is likely to start at Anfield.”
Micky van de Ven update is huge for Tottenham v Liverpool
If there’s any player Postecoglou would want to welcome back into his side ahead of facing the Premier League title winners-in-waiting on their own patch, Van de Ven would arguably be number one.
His hamstring injury kicked off a seemingly endless cycle of players being consigned to the treatment room, including fellow defenders Cristian Romero, Destiny Udogie and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
However, Van de Ven returning to fitness in recent days gives Postecoglou the chance to get his side ticking once again, with Sunday’s victory at Brentford potentially the start of a season-saving run.
With the additions of Kevin Danso and potentially Axel Disasi to bolster Spurs’ central defensive options, Van de Ven being back in the starting side finally gives Postecoglou some strength in numbers.
The Lilywhites hold a 1-0 lead heading into Thursday’s (6 January) semi-final second leg, and with Van de Ven at the back, their chances of reaching Wembley – and potentially lifting a trophy – will go through the roof.
In other Tottenham news, Spurs are still “desperate” to strengthen in one key position before the transfer window slams shut.
For more Tottenham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channelfor instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.