Richarlison’s early exit against Leicester City left Spurs fans concerned, as manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed the striker was battling a groin issue.
Despite scoring his second Premier League goal in as many games to hand Spurs a halftime lead, Richarlison was visibly struggling and substituted in the 54th minute.
Leicester, who had endured seven consecutive league defeats, stunned Tottenham with a five-minute blitz early in the second half.
Goals from Jamie Vardy and Bilal El Khannouss turned the game around, sealing a shocking 2-1 victory and intensifying pressure on Postecoglou.
Postecoglou revealed after the game that Richarlison’s condition was already a concern at halftime. “He felt his groin and wanted to push through, but I could see he wasn’t moving well. That’s why I brought him off,” the Spurs boss explained.
Tottenham’s struggles extend beyond the pitch, with injuries decimating their squad. James Maddison missed the game with a knock, leaving Spurs without ten senior players.
Pape Matar Sarr, who also came off early, was another concern. “Pape wasn’t fit to start but had to play. We’re doing our best, but the squad needs reinforcements,” said Postecoglou.
The relentless schedule isn’t helping. Tottenham face four games across four competitions in the next two weeks, leaving the depleted squad with little respite. Postecoglou acknowledged the mounting challenges:
“The players are giving everything, but we’re stretched thin. Even one more player could make a difference right now.”
When asked about his job security, the manager remained candid: “There will always be doubts. But I focus on supporting these players and staff. There’s still a big opportunity this season if we manage this period well.”
Despite the mounting challenges, Postecoglou remains optimistic that returning players will boost morale. For now, Spurs must navigate a grueling fixture list with their resources stretched to the limit.