Heung-min Son has returned to action for Tottenham after a six-game absence due to a foot injury, offering a positive boost ahead of the crucial Europa League final against Manchester United on May 21 at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. However, Tottenham continues to struggle for creativity and fluency in attack, a concern heightened by the suspected knee injury to key playmaker Dejan Kulusevski, who was forced off early in their recent 2-0 Premier League defeat to Crystal Palace.
Tottenham’s performance against Palace was lackluster, with the team heavily rotated by manager Ange Postecoglou following their Europa League semi-final victory over Bodo/Glimt. The loss left Spurs 17th in the Premier League, underscoring their focus on the upcoming final rather than domestic results. The absence of Kulusevski, alongside long-term injuries to Lucas Bergvall and James Maddison, has left Spurs short of creative options in midfield, forcing players like Pape Matar Sarr and Wilson Odobert into roles that lack inventiveness.
Son’s return in the second half against Palace showed signs of rustiness, as he struggled to make decisive contributions in a struggling Spurs side. Nonetheless, his leadership and experience as captain are seen as vital for Tottenham’s hopes in Bilbao. The plan is for Son to gain more minutes in the upcoming Premier League match against Aston Villa to build match fitness and be ready to start or significantly contribute in the Europa League final.
Richarlison’s recent performances on the left wing have been lively and committed, providing another attacking option for Postecoglou, but the team still lacks a clear creative spark to unlock Manchester United’s defense in the final. Postecoglou faces a tactical challenge to find a way to compensate for the injuries and inject creativity into the side, as Tottenham aims to end a long wait for European silverware and secure a return to the Champions League.
In summary, while Heung-min Son’s return is a welcome development for Tottenham, the team remains in search of a creative solution ahead of the Europa League final. Managing Son’s fitness carefully and finding effective attacking combinations will be crucial for Spurs’ ambitions in Bilbao on May 21.