Vladimir Andrejevic

Sun 25 May 2025 16:50, UK

Ange Postecoglou must axe Tottenham right-back Pedro Porro at half-time against Brighton.

Ahead of kick-off, Postecoglou would have been keen to prove he is the man to take the club forward next season, especially after receiving no public backing from Daniel Levy.

A win against Brighton could secure a lucrative boost for Tottenham and strengthen the 59-year-old’s position in North London. However, Postecoglou would have feared a potential hangover from the UEFA Europa League win.

Those fears would have somewhat dissipated when Dominic Solanke put away a penalty won by Mathys Tel to give Tottenham a 1-0 lead. However, if the hosts are going to hold their slender lead, Porro needs to be replaced after a poor first-half showing.

Postecoglou needs to axe Porro at half time v Brighton

Porro needs to be hooked at half-time after his first-half showing against Brighton.

Every attack by the visitors seemed to come down the right, with Porro unable to handle Yakub Minteh, only making one tackle and one interception, while also making an error which led to a shot [Sofascore].

In possession, the right-back was no better, only completing 64 per cent of his passes and giving the ball away nine times, while just two of his seven long balls found their intended target.

Djed Spence should step in for Postecoglou

Spence’s stock has fallen again after a solid spell in winter saw him briefly rekindle his Tottenham career.

Having only played a handful of minutes in the Europa League final, the Englishman would offer fresh legs, which could help Spurs stem Brighton’s threat down their right.

Postecoglou’s future remains uncertain at Tottenham. As a result, holding on to victory against Brighton could prove to be crucial, as it might be the final chance the Australian has to convince Levy he should remain in charge.

Therefore, Porro cannot afford to be left on after his display in the first half.