Who should replace Heung-min Son at left-wing? Analysing five candidates – opinion
With Heung-min Son sidelined, Ange Postecoglou finds himself facing a critical decision about who will take up Tottenham’s left-wing spot; with Timo Werner, Richarlison, Mikey Moore, and James Maddison all being contenders.
A critical role left vacant
Son’s injury has left Tottenham with a void that demands thoughtful consideration, especially given how pivotal Son has been to the club’s attacking threat this season. The Lilywhites, riding high on recent form, are preparing to take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Postecoglou now needs to rethink his strategy, particularly in finding someone who can bring the same energy and threat on the left flank, ensuring Tottenham’s forward momentum remains intact.
There are several options for the manager: loanee Timo Werner, academy talent Mikey Moore, versatile midfielder James Maddison, and returning forward Richarlison.
While each player brings a unique skill set, none are a perfect fit; Postecoglou’s choices come with their own advantages and drawbacks, leaving him with a range of possibilities for his game plan against Palace.
Selection debate: Moore, Werner, Richarlison, Odobert
With so much at stake, Postecoglou will weigh his players’ form and fitness carefully. For Werner, despite his pedigree, his ongoing struggles in front of goal and visible confidence issues may lead Postecoglou to withhold him from the starting XI.
Given the unforgiving nature of Premier League matches, Spurs cannot afford to gamble on a forward lacking sharpness in critical moments. This could leave Werner as a lesser-used option this weekend, with the team prioritising more reliable alternatives.
The other option is Mikey Moore, who has shown promise and maturity beyond his years. Moore has impressed in recent appearances, bringing an aggressive edge to Tottenham’s play. Nonetheless, a high-stakes clash against Palace might be asking too much of the young winger too soon; instead, easing him in with a cameo from the bench may give him a chance to make an impact without the pressure of a starting role.
Richarlison could also offer strength on the wing; however, his recent return from a long-term injury makes it likely that Postecoglou will exercise caution in managing his game time. Although the Brazilian impressed in Thursday’s Europa League match by converting a penalty to seal the win, the intensity of a Premier League fixture could prove challenging for him to navigate so soon after his recovery. Richarlison’s enthusiasm and grit might be better utilised as an impact substitute rather than a starter, allowing him to find his rhythm progressively.
Finally, Wilson Odobert has also already started at left-wing for Tottenham this season and looked bright in his cameo against Alkmaar. The only downside – he has only just returned from injury and is unlikely to be fit enough to start a game yet.
Spurs’ probable setup: Maddison wide, Sarr central
In my view, Postecoglou will likely opt for a balance of creativity and physicality by positioning James Maddison on the left wing while bringing in Pape Matar Sarr to bolster the midfield. This strategy would allow Tottenham to retain Maddison’s playmaking flair in a slightly wider role while enhancing the midfield’s robustness with Sarr’s presence.
Maddison’s presence on the left would ensure Spurs maintain their creative flow in attack, with his playmaking ability being critical to unlocking Palace’s defensive lines. Sarr’s addition to the midfield adds an athletic edge that can counter Palace’s physical game, providing Tottenham with a platform to control possession and distribute effectively from the centre. While Werner and Moore bring alternative qualities, Maddison’s experience, coupled with Sarr’s defensive assurance, offers a safer, more balanced solution for this specific Premier League clash.
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